Summer vacation is a great time to relax, take family trips, and get things done that you haven’t really had the time for during the year’s busier months. It’s no secret that when we’re on vacation our typical routines can be disrupted, so we’re here to give you some tips on how to maintain your oral healthcare no matter where this summer takes you!
To keep things simple, start with a basic dental care kit. This should include your toothbrush and toothpaste, dental floss, and any mouthwash you like to use as part of your routine. Keeping a kit ready is the best way to continue your dental care on that last-minute sleepover or beach trip! It’s important to note that anything you store in a travel case should be completely dry before putting it away. A wet toothbrush harbors more bacteria which will then spread to your mouth.
It’s important to stay mindful of what we’re eating and drinking, even on vacation. If you find yourself indulging in a lot of ice cream or lemonade, be sure to add some veggies and water. Water not only helps us stay hydrated in the summer heat, but it can help maintain saliva production to keep the mouth moist. Water also helps wash away sugars, acids, and other harmful bacteria. Vegetables are a great way to snack because they pack a lot of nutrients that benefit your teeth and your overall health. When eating things like candy and popsicles, try to avoid crunching too hard as this can be damaging to your teeth and any existing dental work such as fillings and crowns.
You can’t forget the SPF! It’s so important to protect your lips anytime you are out in the sun. Your lips are one of the most sensitive parts of the body when it comes to damage from the sun. An SPF of 15 or above is recommended to keep lips hydrated and protected. Remember to reapply after swimming or sweating to keep lips protected all day long. Feel free to stop by Queen City Dental Arts and grab one of our complimentary chap sticks with an SPF 15.
Whether you’re traveling or staying home to work on projects, summer can get a little busy. Not only is it important to remember these helpful tips, but don’t skip your routine dental appointment either! Dr. Stenvall always looks forward to seeing patients and hearing about their summer adventures.
Give us a call today at 704-542-6533 to make your appointment with our dentist in Charlotte, North Carolina, and learn more about our dental services and our summer dental tips!