How summer affects your oral health and what you can do to protect your smile

Summer is a time to disconnect, enjoy, travel… but it is also a time when, without realizing it, we neglect certain health habits. And the mouth is no exception. In fact, in the dental office we usually notice an upturn in certain dental problems after the vacations: from sensitivity to tears or more inflamed gums.

That’s why it’s important to take advantage of this time of year to tell you how summer can affect your oral health and what you can do to protect your smile without giving up your enjoyment.

Chlorine and tooth sensitivity

One of the most frequent consultations after the summer has to do with tooth sensitivity. Chlorine from swimming pools, if you are exposed to it for a long time, can alter the pH balance of the mouth and affect the enamel, especially if there is already previous erosion. If you also consume cold drinks frequently, the sensation is aggravated.

Here is more information if you are interested in why tooth sensitivity occurs and how it can be treated.

Dietary changes: more sugars, more acidity

In summer, it is normal to relax with the diet. Ice cream, carbonated beverages, acidic juices, cocktails? All this can not only favor the appearance of caries, but also wear down the enamel if there is frequent consumption.

In addition, between meals away from home and changing schedules, many people reduce the frequency of brushing. My advice: even if it’s summer, try to brush at least twice a day, and if you can’t, carry sugar-free gum with xylitol as a temporary backup.

If you notice plaque buildup or stains after your vacation, consider having your teeth cleaned upon your return.

Halitosis and dehydration

With the heat, we tend to drink less water than we should, especially if we are traveling or spending many hours in the sun. Dehydration, together with poor hygiene, can favor the appearance of halitosis.

A dry mouth hinders the antibacterial action of saliva. If you notice persistent bad breath in summer, here is a complete guide on halitosis: causes and treatments.

Increased risk of bruxism (yes, even on vacation)

Although it is associated with stress, bruxism does not always disappear in summer. Changing beds, sleeping with more ambient noise, late nights or even consuming more alcohol or caffeine can cause you to clench your teeth without realizing it. Many patients come in after the summer with muscle discomfort or small fractures in their teeth.

If you already know that you grind your teeth or wake up with jaw tension, check the condition of your mouth guard and do not hesitate to resume its use even on vacation.

Blows and fractures in teeth

Dental traumatisms increase in summer, especially in children and adolescents. Games in the swimming pool, unprotected sports, cycling accidents…

The problem is that often the blow is not given importance if the tooth is not completely broken, but complications may appear later on.

If there is pain, change of color or mobility in a tooth, do not let it go. You can consult the most common cases in this guide to frequent dental emergencies.

Basic recommendations to protect your mouth in summer

• Do not neglect daily brushing, even if you change your routine.

• Drink plenty of water: helps to maintain healthy saliva

• Moderate very cold or acidic foods if you are sensitive.

• Wear a mouthguard if you clench your teeth at night.

• Do a check-up or cleaning at the end of the vacation

Conclusion

Summer is there to be enjoyed, but that doesn’t mean we should forget to take care of our mouth. Many of the problems we see in the dental office after the vacations could be avoided with small daily gestures.

If you notice discomfort, sensitivity or it’s simply been more than six months since you’ve checked your mouth, September is a good time to catch up. Your smile also deserves a healthy return to routine.