We associate summer with fun for a reason. Ice cream, swimming, field sports, backyard sprinkler parties – plenty of enjoyable treats and activities are packed into this season. Many of them probably carry a hint of nostalgia for anyone older than 18. But these summer staples aren’t so innocent! Here’s why you should take care to protect your oral health from a few of your favorite things.
Pool Floaties Harbor Bacteria
Ever wonder what happens to your mouth when you go to blow up your favorite donut-shaped flotation device? It’s such a common thing to do in this weather that chances are, you haven’t. But now that you are thinking about it, doesn’t it seem like pressing your lips to a dirty inflatable spout is a bad idea? It is.
Either you’re taking up the torch from a tired buddy and swapping spit or trying to breathe life into a floaty that has been exposed to the elements. In both scenarios, the bacteria is coming for your teeth and gums. Best to use an air pump instead.
The Cold Will Bother Your Teeth Anyway
It might not be cold outside, but that just means you’re going the extra mile to keep cool. Lemonade, sweet tea, pina coladas, ice cream, popsicles, slushies – you get the idea. Summer is when frozen treat and drink consumption skyrockets.
Unfortunately, a lot of these goodies contain insane amounts of sugar! Sugar fuels harmful bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. To save your pearly whites from aches and tooth loss, visit your dentist for a cleaning and limit your sugar intake.
Outdoor Fun is Surprisingly Risky for Teeth
Or maybe it’s not so surprising, particularly if you know someone who participates in a contact sport. But when heads collide or trips result in faceplants, there’s a possibility for some dental damage. Fortunately, these accidents aren’t the end of the world. Just remain calm, call an emergency dentist, and remind everyone not to run around the pool!
Ever Heard of Swimmer’s Calculus?
Swimmer’s calculus is when chlorine build-up causes dental discoloration. Though the staining will be the most obvious symptom, excessive exposure to chlorine can wear down enamel and cause gum disease if not cleaned away by your dentist.
Of course, the most common source of chlorine is pool water! Be sure to check your private pool’s chlorine levels and look at the iron bars reaching into the depths of public pools. If there’s signs of metal-erosion, there’s a good chance there’s too much chlorine.
With all this in mind, you shouldn’t shy away from the things that make summer, well, summer! You and your loved ones can still create fond memories. Just be careful, maintain a solid oral health routine, and take these suggestions to heart. When in doubt, talk to your dentist about your concerns. As an oral health professional, they’ll definitely have good advice.
About the Practice
Our team at Advanced Dental Concepts offers comprehensive oral care and a quality office experience. Whether you need an emergency dental appointment or a standard checkup and cleaning, we’ll make sure you feel welcome and comfortable. For more tips on how to keep your teeth safe this summer, call our office at 219-322-3418. We’ll help you take care of your oral health so you can enjoy summer without worries!