Protect Your Teeth By Avoiding These 6 Summertime Risks

Learn about 6 common summertime risks that could damage your teeth if you’re not careful.

Summer is definitely upon us, and we hope you and your family are enjoying it to the fullest. However, don’t lose sight of practical concerns like your oral health in the midst of all this fun.

Here are 6 risks that certain summertime activities can bring to your teeth.

Chewing Ice: An iced beverage is definitely refreshing and relaxing on a hot summer’s day. But whatever you do, don’t crunch up those ice cubes. Biting down on hard ice could ruin your relaxing day by causing a tooth to chip or break or by damaging a filling or other restoration, sending you running to the dentist’s office for emergency care.

Sports Drinks: It’s important to stay hydrated in the summer, especially if you are active in the outdoor heat. Sports drinks tout themselves as the ideal beverage for hydration because they contain electrolytes as well as water. Unfortunately, sports drinks also tend to be high in sugar and acids, both of which are very bad for teeth and can cause enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity.

Lemonade: A tall glass of lemonade shouts “summer” to many people. Unfortunately, this traditional summertime favorite is also high in sugar and acid. Like sports drinks, it can cause enamel erosion if consumed in excess.

Pool Water: Splashing in the pool is great way to stay cool in the summer. Unfortunately, spending too much time in chemically treated pool water can actually discolor your teeth. You may notice yellow or brown deposits forming on your front teeth. This is known as “swimmer’s calculus.” Brushing won’t remove it, but fortunately your dentist can.

Biking, Blading, and Skating: Most people will go their whole lives without having a serious biking, rollerblading, or skateboarding accident. However, if you do take a tumble, you could easily damage your teeth. You might break or chip a tooth or even knock a tooth out completely. If you plan to bike, rollerblade, or skateboard on a regular basis this summer, put some serious consideration into wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth.

Poor Oral Hygiene on Road Trips: Summer road trips are a tradition for many families. Don’t forget to bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash along—and don’t let the departure from your ordinary routine make you forget to use them.