Summer is fun and games, especially in doing outdoor activities and vacationing. However, it is the time when there are chances to get dental emergencies. Who would love to spend summer days in the dental clinic with a broken tooth or other dental issues? Therefore, being extra careful during this season matters. Here we’ll discuss seven easy steps an emergency dentist near you recommends to ensure your teeth are secured and prevent any dental emergency during the summer.

1. Wear a Mouthguard During Sports

Many people practice summer sports, including soccer, basketball, or baseball. It’s fun but indeed can cause some accidents, like a blow from a ball to the mouth or falling. A mouthguard protects your teeth and gums from injury. In some cases, dentists even recommend wearing a mouthguard, especially a custom-fitted one that perfectly moulds your teeth and mouth.

Wearing it during contact sports may, however, help save your teeth from breaks, chips, and even knockouts.

2. Avoid Chewing on Hard Foods

Summertime is full of good but sometimes hard treats such as ice, popcorn, and hard candy. Although tempting, chewing on these might crack or chip your teeth. Dentists recommend avoiding hard meals to protect teeth.

If you just want something crunchy to bite your teeth into, just chop it up. Sometimes this will save your teeth from wear and tear.

3. Stay Hydrated to Protect Your Teeth

Hydration is excellent for the whole body, but it also helps preserve healthy teeth. During summertime, many people drink large quantities of soda or lemonade, which puts them at risk of developing cavities and tooth decay in their teeth.

Water helps clean foods and sugars, keeps teeth free of harmful bacteria, and prevents cavities. So, make it a priority to always carry a water bottle with you and drink it at regular intervals. This will keep your mouth refreshed and hydrated.

4. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

Many people use their teeth to open bags of chips or even bottles. This might seem like a quick fix, but it can harm your teeth. Dentists often see patients who have cracked or broken teeth because they use their teeth for something other than eating.

It’s important to use scissors or bottle openers instead of your teeth. Taking this small precaution can save you from a painful dental emergency.

5. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential, but it becomes more vital during the summer. Summer seems to bring everyone closer to doing crazy things. From getting on a beach, a long road trip, hiking, or just hanging out with your friends, summer can really get pretty crazy. Certain routines that have become habitual during summer vacation are skipped. Therefore, brush and floss regularly. Dentists recommend brushing at least two times daily and flossing once daily to remove food particles and plaque from the mouth.

Skipping oral habits can result in problems like cavities, gum disease, or infections. Keep in mind this is something that could go wrong with your summer plans. Maintain good oral hygiene to keep your mouth healthy and prevent these issues.

6. Schedule a Dental Checkup Before Summer Starts

Another effective way to prevent dental emergencies is by receiving dental checkups before the summer officially begins. Problems such as cavities or loose fillings may be detected in time and corrected before serious issues can arise.

A checkup also includes a professional cleaning, which removes tartar and plaque that might have been missed with regular brushing. Visit your dentist regularly to ensure your tooth is in optimal shape so you can enjoy summer without any surprises.

7. Be Careful with Pool Activities

Swimming pools are your favourite summer hangouts, but they may also be harmful to your teeth. Slipping on a wet surface or playing rough in the pool can lead to accidents, such as hitting your mouth against the rim of the pool or another person. In that case, you need urgent dental care to save your teeth.

Dentists recommend being cautious around pools and avoiding rough play. If you swim a lot, it’s also a good idea to rinse your mouth with fresh water after swimming because the chemicals in pool water, like chlorine, can affect your teeth over time.

Get Your Dental Checkup Today At Lee Dental & Facial!

At Lee Dental & Facial, we prioritize your oral health and overall well-being. Our experienced team of dentist in Upper East Side offers a wide range of dental services, including dental cleaning, tooth extraction, dental implants, and more. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure you receive optimal care in a comfortable environment. Ready to enhance your smile? Schedule your appointment with Lee Dental & Facial today! Your journey to optimal dental health starts here!

7 Ways to Avoid Dental Emergencies During the Summer