Keeping You Summer Smiles Healthy

Your friends at Ora Dentistry hope you are enjoying your summer and making the most of it no matter where you are. We also want to remind you to keep your smile bright and healthy with proper oral hygiene. Here are some reminders to help you.

Stay Hydrated!

The importance of staying hydrated cannot be overstated for physical and oral health. The human body is about 60% water in the average man and 55% in the average woman. Water is important to maintain many systems in the body. Dehydration can become serious, even life-threatening in young children and senior adults. Too little water can lead to headaches, dry mouth and low blood pressure, just to name a few. It can also cause dizziness or lightheadedness which, in the elderly, can lead to falling – another serious problem.

Dry mouth is a factor in the development of tooth decay. Certain medical conditions, over-the-counter medications and prescription meds can cause this condition. For workers who must continue to wear masks for hours on end, dry mouth can occur if you are not taking a break from your mask and keeping your mouth moist by frequently sipping water. Summer can make your condition worse, since the body usually produces less saliva this time of year and high temperatures only make it worse.

Keep in mind that beverages containing sugar and caffeine are less likely to quench your thirst. In fact, caffeine is a natural diuretic, causing your body to lose more water. The best way to keep your body hydrated is to drink plenty of water. You do not have to go without flavor, though. Fruit infused water is a healthy way to have a delicious, refreshing and flavorful drink while providing healthy nutrients and helping you stay hydrated.

Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Summer is a time to lay back and enjoy the pleasures of life, including good foods, beverages and friends. Travel, visiting and general disruption of your normal daily routine can cause you to forget about your regular brushing and flossing routine. Even though this is a time for rest and relaxation, it is important to maintain your oral hygiene. Invest in disposable toothbrushes for travel and keep dental floss handy. This way you can brush and floss on the go if necessary.

Take Note of Your Diet

This time of year is perfect for fresh fruits and vegetables, so be sure to include them in your daily meal plans. Go easy on the sugary treats and drinks. Choose fruit over sweets when possible. Crisp veggies like celery and carrots and fruits like apples help keep your breath fresh; and they have the added bonus of helping to clean plaque from your teeth.

At Ora Dentistry, we can address all your dental needs but we pride ourselves on helping our patients maintain a preventive care mindset. Call us if you need help to keep your summer smile looking its best.