In summertime, it’s great to mix up your daily routine for beach days, barbeques, camping trips, and everything in between. You might also experiment with changes in your wardrobe and skin care to prepare for summer fun. One routine that shouldn’t change with the seasons? Your dental care.
Just like your general health, oral health depends on regular maintenance. Unlike eating, exercising, and staying hydrated, though, it can be a little harder to remember to take care of your teeth during summer months.
Follow these 6 tips from Russo Dentistry in Raleigh to maintain and motivate your oral health routine to avoid issues before they start!
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Keep Up the Routine!
First and most importantly, you simply have to keep up the routine of brushing twice and flossing once per day. Make sure you’re replacing your toothbrush every 3 months, too—and set a reminder to brush even on days packed full with fun summer adventures!
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Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks
This is an obvious one year-round, but it’s easier to forget in summertime. That’s because it’s the time of year you’re most likely to indulge in ice cream, s’mores, cotton candy and other treats during fun events where you might not be able to rinse your teeth afterward. Consider bringing water everywhere you go for this purpose in addition to consistent hydration.
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Be Aware of Sugary—and Carbonated!—Beverages
While of course you know your neighborhood lemonade stand is to blame for eroding enamel, it’s not just because of the sugar! Acidity from lemons causes just as much (if not more!) harm, and that same acidity is also found in carbonated beverages like hard seltzers. This is just one more reason to drink responsibly, even if it’s not alcohol!
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Invest in Travel Toiletries
Instead of having to remember to bring your everyday toothbrush, toothpaste and floss, try purchasing separate dental care items to keep in your travel bag. That way, you’ll never find yourself without them.
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Use Mouth Guards for Contact Sports
Protect your teeth during rough-and-tumble outdoor activities and encourage your loved ones to do the same.
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Remember Your Appointments!
Summer is great time to schedule dental appointments for the year. It’s also a great time to go to the dentist, as you may be less busy with other obligations now than in early fall. Remember, Raleigh and Durham, NC area clients can make an appointment online or by phone anytime at Russo Dentistry!
