I always feel nervous with dental visits but Lauren was real easy and relaxing and professional. From the front desk to the back of the office, the entire space is really clean and refreshing and appealing. The dental hygienists are fresh faced, bubbly, neat, and attentive. Dr. Volner was cool as a cucumber and very professional, and he and Lauren explained my treatment options very thoroughly and clearly. I really appreciated that. I’m a new patient but I feel really good about this place.
Summer is in full swing, bringing with it a calendar filled with vacations, outdoor adventures, and memory-making moments. At Volner Family Dental, we want to ensure your smile stays as bright and healthy as your summer plans.
While you’re packing sunscreen to protect your skin, it’s equally important to consider protecting your teeth during this season of travel, treats, and schedule changes. Here’s our guide to maintaining optimal oral health during your summer adventures.
Create a Travel-Friendly Dental Kit
Whether you’re heading to a beachside resort or embarking on a camping expedition, a well-stocked dental travel kit is essential. Beyond the basics of a toothbrush and toothpaste, consider including these items:
Travel-Sized Mouth Rinse
A small bottle of antimicrobial mouth rinse can be a lifesaver when brushing isn’t immediately possible after meals or when dealing with limited bathroom facilities during outdoor activities.
Floss Picks or Threaders
These convenient alternatives to traditional floss take up minimal space and are perfect for on-the-go oral care. Tuck a few in your day bag or pocket for quick use after meals away from your accommodation.
Sugar-Free Gum with Xylitol
When brushing isn’t an option, chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production, helping to rinse away food particles and neutralize acids. Look specifically for gum containing xylitol, which can help prevent bacteria from sticking to teeth.
Toothbrush Cover
Protect your toothbrush from germs and damage by using a ventilated cover. Avoid airtight containers that can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth.
Stay Hydrated with Water
Summer heat and increased activity levels make proper hydration crucial – not just for your overall health, but for your oral health too. Water helps:
Rinse Away Food Particles and Bacteria
When you can’t brush after snacking, drinking water is the next best thing. Swishing water around your mouth helps dislodge food debris and dilute acids that harm enamel.
Combat Dry Mouth
Air travel, hot weather, and increased alcohol consumption (common during vacations) can all lead to reduced saliva flow. Since saliva is your mouth’s natural defense against cavities, staying hydrated helps maintain this protective mechanism.
Provide Fluoride
If you’re drinking tap water in areas where it’s safe, you may benefit from fluoride that strengthens tooth enamel. This passive protection is particularly valuable when your regular oral care routine might be disrupted.
Navigate Summer Treats Wisely
Vacation often means indulging in treats that wouldn’t normally be part of your routine. We aren’t suggesting you skip the ice cream or summer cocktails entirely, but a few strategic approaches can minimize damage:
Timing Matters
Enjoy sugary or acidic treats as part of meals rather than continuous snacking throughout the day. This limits the frequency of acid attacks on your enamel.
Choose Tooth-Friendly Alternatives
Swap sugary popsicles for frozen fruit, or choose dark chocolate over sticky candies. Fresh summer fruits like watermelon provide sweetness with high water content that helps cleanse the mouth.
Use Straws for Acidic Drinks
Drinking citrus-based beverages, sodas, or sweetened iced tea through a straw helps minimize contact with your teeth, reducing the risk of enamel erosion.
Protect Against Summer Sports Injuries
Summer activities often include sports and outdoor adventures that could put your teeth at risk.
Consider a Custom Mouthguard
Before participating in activities like mountain biking, skateboarding, or contact sports, consider investing in a custom-fitted mouthguard from our practice. Unlike generic store-bought options, our mouthguards offer superior protection and comfort.
Know Basic Dental First Aid
Familiarize yourself with steps to take if a tooth is chipped or knocked out. For a knocked-out permanent tooth, gently rinse it without scrubbing, try to reinsert it, or keep it moist in milk or saliva while seeking immediate dental care.
Schedule a Pre-Vacation Checkup
Perhaps the most important step in your summer smile protection plan is scheduling a preventive checkup before your vacation. We recommend:
Address Minor Issues Early
That small sensitivity or tiny chip might seem insignificant, but could develop into a painful emergency that disrupts your vacation. A pre-trip visit allows us to identify and address potential problems before they escalate.
Get a Professional Cleaning
Starting your vacation with a professionally cleaned mouth not only gives you a confident smile for photos but provides a clean slate that’s easier to maintain while traveling.
Remember, vacation memories should be filled with smiles – not dental emergencies. The team at Volner Family Dental wishes you a summer of adventure, relaxation, and healthy smiles.
Call us today at 888-787-5718 to schedule an appointment. You can also request an appointment online if you prefer. Safe travels!