“Every year we notice an increase in problems such as early cavities or gum recession after the summer,” explains Dr. Almudena Herraiz, dentist and co-founder of Janer & Herraiz Orthodontics. “Dehydration, reduced daily brushing, and increased sugar consumption create a perfect cocktail for bacteria to multiply.”

The most common dental mistakes of the summer

• Irregular brushing: Sleeping away, changing schedules, or spending long hours away from home causes many people to forget to brush their teeth after every meal.
• Overuse of soft drinks, alcohol, and ice cream: The excess sugar and acids present in many beverages weaken tooth enamel and promote the development of cavities.
• Dehydration: Heat and outdoor activities promote dehydration and reduce saliva production. Saliva is crucial because it acts as a natural defense against bacteria that cause cavities and bad breath.
• Postponing dental visits: Many people postpone dental checkups “until after the summer,” when it would be better to go sooner and later to avoid surprises.

Ten tips for a summer without surprises

1. Maintain good oral hygiene

Brushing and flossing at least twice a day is essential to remove any food residue and bacteria that can weaken your teeth and maintain good oral hygiene. Don't forget to bring an oral hygiene kit if you're not coming home.

2. Stay hydrated

Drinking enough water is important for overall health and also for oral health. Water helps keep your mouth hydrated, which contributes to saliva production and fights bacteria, protecting your teeth from cavities.

3. Eat a healthy diet

During the holidays, eating habits often change, and we tend to eat worse, especially due to the increased consumption of sugary foods and drinks. We should try to limit our consumption of sweets, soft drinks, and processed and sugary foods, as these increase the risk of cavities and damage tooth enamel.

4. Beware of thermal contrasts

The shock between outside heat and very cold drinks can increase tooth sensitivity.

5. Avoid tobacco and alcohol

Like cold foods, tobacco and alcohol consumption can increase tooth sensitivity.

6. Avoid biting ice

“Many people tend to bite into ice because it comes with many drinks when we go out for a drink, and it keeps us cool. But this behavior can cause tooth sensitivity, fracture enamel, or cause microcracks,” explains Dr. Almudena Herraiz, dentist and co-founder of Janer & Herraiz Orthodontics.

7. Monitor for dental accidents

In summer, the risk of dental accidents increases due to more outdoor sports and leisure activities. It's important to take the necessary precautions, using mouthguards whenever appropriate. When starting a new activity, it's crucial to educate yourself about it and follow the instructor's instructions. In case of an accident, consult a professional as soon as possible.

8. Avoid home remedies, such as baking soda or lemon

“Two well-known myths are that baking soda and lemon help whiten and clean teeth. But these viral recommendations are very dangerous, as they can damage enamel, cause tooth sensitivity, and lead to cavities. These methods are widely used in the summer because people want to quickly see their teeth perfect for the holidays. It's very important not to use methods that aren't scientifically proven; it's best to consult a professional,” explains Dr. Herraiz.

9. Change your toothbrush before and after summer

The usual recommendation is to change your toothbrush every three months, but there are exceptions, such as in the case of illness, when it's better to change it sooner, especially if you store it near other toothbrushes. Also, if you notice that the bristles are worn and aren't cleaning properly, it's best to replace the brush.

10. Consult the dentist after the holidays

It's recommended to make an appointment with your dentist for a routine checkup to make sure the summer hasn't taken its toll on your teeth.

Oral care shouldn't take a vacation. With good hydration, consistent hygiene, and a balanced diet, you can enjoy the summer without compromising your oral health.

Source: https://www.eldentistamoderno.com/texto-diario/mostrar/5380211/diez-consejos-expertos-verano-sorpresas-salud-bucodental