Keeping your Summertime SMILE:)
Happy “Tooth-Day”!
Farah Flossit here, wishing you well on this warm, breezy day!
Well folks, it’s about that time again,….SUMMERTIME! Most families are wrapping up the school year with graduations, proms, award ceremonies, and surely pool parties!
Unless you are a stay-at-home mom or dad, your kiddos will probably still be sleeping when you leave for work in the morning, unless of course, they will be attending a summer camp or if they are early risers. If you will be leaving before your kids wake up, they may forget to brush their teeth and fall off the oral hygiene routine. With this in mind, remember to set some reminders for them, so the mouth monsters don’t get a hold of their cared for smiles. If you are leaving them with a caretaker/sitter, make sure that person makes them brush and floss.
Below are just a couple of starter Summer tips to keep in mind:)
- POOL WATER–The chemicals in swimming pools can lead to discoloration of your smile if you’re exposed for long enough. Research has shown that people who spent more than 6 hours a week in swimming pools ended up with discolored front teeth. The reason is the higher pH level of the water, which beaks down proteins in saliva and leave a brownish stain on your teeth. If the pool’s pH balance isn’t properly cared for, the water can also soften enamel, leading to an increased risk of decay and damage. Luckily, trips to the dentist for regular cleanings and fluoride treatments can combat both of these problems!
- SUMMER FUN FOODS–During the summer, you’re probably going to attend a lot of parties, and with parties come a variety of beverages and snacks. Summertime drinks include soda, sports drinks, white wine, beer, and lemonade, and these drinks are loaded with sugar. A simple tip for counteracting the effects of these beverages, however, is to rinse your mouth with water regularly throughout the party. But don’t brush your teeth too soon after consuming acidic beverages. These drinks can soften enamel, and brushing while the enamel is soft can do more damage. Wait at least an hour before you brush! Party foods can be dark in color and full of sugar as well. Dark foods contribute to stained teeth, and we all know what happens when you eat too much sugar! Cavities! But by rinsing your mouth after eating these dark and sugary foods, you can avoid staining and cavities — and a trip to the dentist during your summer can give your smile a boost!
Don’t forget to protect your skin from the strong rays by applying sunscreen multiple times while you are outside. Wear a hat and sunglasses and now is a good time to accessorize your little ones with cool sunglasses, hats, and UV protected rash guards. Be safe, stay cool, and let the Summertime fun festivities begin!
Thank you for tuning in on today’s Happy “Tooth-Day’s” report!
I look forward to chatting with you all next week!
In the meantime, you can follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/casasmilespediatricdentistryandorthodontics?pnref=lhc. Instagram http://instagram.com/casasmiles/, Twitter https://twitter.com/casa_smiles, Yelp http://www.yelp.com/biz/casa-smiles-pediatric-dentistry-and-orthodontics-coral-gables & Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/casasmiles/ to hear all about our daily news! You can always call or email us with any questions, concerns, to make an appointment, or for a complimentary Ortho Consultation http://www.casasmiles.com/contact-us/.
Your Friend,
Farah Flossit (Special Agent Flossit)
