Summertime Dental Tips for Oral Health On-The-Go
With Memorial Day weekend signaling the start of summer, the Dr. E Cosmetic & Family Dentistry team would like to wish everyone a safe and healthy season! We also recognize that summer is synonymous with refreshing sweet treats like lemonade, ice cream, pie and other tasty favorites. That’s why, wherever your summer travels or gatherings may take you, these quick summertime dental tips will help you keep your oral health top-of-mind and your smile sparkling –especially while you’re on-the-go!
Water, Water, Water! It should be your go-to all year round, but we can’t stress enough the importance of always keeping water handy during the hot summer months. Water is essential for staying hydrated and keeping your mouth clean in a pinch. If you don’t have easy access to your toothbrush during your summer travels, a quick sip or swish of H2O can help remove any build up on your teeth.
Sugar-Free Gum. Whether you’re traveling by car or airplane, this is one of those summertime dental tips that is more enjoyable: Be sure to keep a pack of sugar-free gum handy at all times. While gum-chewing is never a substitute for teeth-brushing, it can help naturally cleanse the mouth while you’re on-the-go. Bonus: chewing gum on a flight can also help pop your ears during uncomfortable air pressure changes.
Travel-size “goodies” — As you pack snacks for your summer road trip, don’t forget to include travel-sized goodies that are meant to keep your smile bright and white. Don’t wait for the last minute! You can visit the travel section of your drug store or supermarket anytime to load up on mini tubes of toothpaste, travel floss and portable toothbrushes with handy built-in cases. They are super-convenient to stash in a carry-on, tote or purse so there’s no excuse not to keep up with your oral hygiene while you’re on vacation!
Balance is key. It’s OK to indulge in sweet summer treats from time to time, but balance is key. If you plan to eat a decadent summer dessert, consider opting for water, fruits and veggies earlier in the day in lieu of, let’s say, sugary drinks and chips. Make a habit of choosing healthy grab-and-go snacks such as celery, apples, carrots, string cheese and nuts.
Top Picnic picks. Charcuterie boards are as delicious as they are aesthetically pleasing for your palate (and your social media feed)! In addition to sliced meats, be sure to load it up with creamy cheeses, healthy nuts and crunchy fruit. Veggies and dip area a great picnic side as are leafy green salads and refreshing fruit salads. As a rule, the more colorful the spread, the healthier your picnic tends to be.
Go-to items for the grill: Beefy burgers and hot dogs are yummy summer staples, but there are delicious and healthy protein alternatives that will also satisfy your guests’ appetites. Try throwing some leaner crowd-pleasing proteins on the BBQ such as turkey burgers, salmon or chicken breasts. Kabobs are another delish way to get your daily dose of protein and veggies.
As you fire up the grill, pack your bags, or check-in for your flight, try not to check-out on your oral health during summer travel. Adopting a few of the above simple summertime dental tips and tricks will help keep your smile shining like the summer sun until your next dental visit!
Contact the Dr. E Cosmetic & Family Dentistry team today for your next visit!
480-494-2435