How to keep your Smile Bright and Safe this Summer
Sustaining proper oral hygiene is crucial for a healthy and beautiful smile. During the summer, we tend to indulge in outdoor activities, sugary treats, and drinks, which can harm our teeth and gums. Listed below are six methods to keep your teeth and gums healthy, safe, and looking their best during the summer season.
Regular Dental Cleaning and Filling Appointments
Regular dental cleaning and filling appointments are critical for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist or dentist removes plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing alone cannot. Plaque refers to a sticky bacterial film that builds up on your teeth, potentially causing tooth decay and gum disease. If not promptly removed, plaque can harden into tartar, a substance that only a dental professional can eliminate.
In a dental filling procedure, a dentist addresses tooth decay by filling a cavity, which is a hole in the tooth resulting from decay. If left untreated, cavities can cause tooth pain, infection, and, ultimately, tooth loss. Promptly treating dental cavities can prevent more significant issues in the future, such as root canals or tooth extractions.
Teeth Whitening
A radiant and gleaming smile can boost your confidence and make you feel prepared to proudly display your pristine teeth. Your dentist can safely and effectively perform professional teeth whitening treatments, ensuring optimal results. Over-the-counter teeth whitening kits are not recommended. Whitening products contain a bleaching agent, usually hydrogen peroxide, that breaks down stains and discolorations on your teeth.
Before attempting any whitening product, it is vital to consult your dentist to ensure its suitability for your teeth and to avoid potential damage. Teeth whitening can cause tooth sensitivity and irritation to the gums if misused.
Botox Therapeutics
Botox is known as a popular cosmetic procedure that involves the utilization of injections containing botulinum toxin to diminish the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines. However, Botox Therapeutics provides many dental health benefits in the dental industry.
Botox Therapeutics can be used to alleviate symptoms of bruxism (teeth grinding) and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), which can cause jaw pain and headaches. Botox Therapeutics can also be used to treat high lip line cases, where a gummy smile shows excessive gum tissue.
Mouth Guards
The summer season often involves engaging in sports and outdoor activities, which can potentially pose a risk of dental injuries. Wearing a mouth guard can prevent chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth. You can buy over-the-counter mouth guards or have one custom-made by your dentist for optimal fit and protection.
A custom-made mouth guard provides better protection than an over-the-counter product because it’s tailored to your teeth and mouth. A poorly fitting mouth guard can be uncomfortable and ineffective, so it’s essential to have one that fits correctly.
Healthy Diet
Summertime is often associated with sweet treats and sugary drinks, which can be detrimental to your oral health.
Consuming a nourishing diet comprising abundant fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can support the well-being of your teeth and gums. Additionally, staying adequately hydrated by drinking ample water aids in maintaining mouth hydration and eliminating detrimental bacteria.
Fruits and vegetables are abundant in essential nutrients that promote healthy teeth and gums. Calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D are vital for strong teeth and bones, and vitamin C helps prevent gum disease.
Restricting the consumption of sugary foods and beverages can assist in the prevention of tooth decay and the development of cavities.
Sun Protection
Sun protection isn’t just for your skin. Lips are vulnerable to sunburn, which can increase the risk of developing lip cancer.
Applying a lip balm containing SPF can aid in safeguarding your lips and maintaining their well-being.
To summarize, upholding excellent oral health is of utmost importance for a beautiful and healthy smile. Amidst the summer season, it is crucial to implement additional measures to safeguard your teeth and gums against potential damage. Regular dental cleaning and filling appointments, teeth whitening, Botox Therapeutics, mouth guards, a healthy diet, and sun protection are all ways to keep your smile bright, safe, and looking its best. By following these six tips, you can enjoy all the summer activities while keeping your teeth and gums healthy and strong. Always remember to seek guidance from your dentist before attempting any new treatments or using new products, ensuring their suitability for your specific requirements. A healthy smile is worth the effort, so ensure the well-being of your teeth while relishing the delights of the summer season!