- Common summer culprits for tooth damage
- Summer oral health tips with the best drinks for healthy teeth
- Smart swaps for smile-friendly alternatives
- Book a summertime appointment with your dentist
After months of cold temperatures and unending snow, what everyone in Midtown Toronto has been waiting for has arrived: summertime!
Finally, we can break out the shorts, put on sunscreen, and head outdoors for some fun summer activities. It is time to let loose a little with cold beverages because, after all, summertime in Toronto is much too short.
However, as much as we love to indulge in iced coffees, patio cocktails, and fruit drinks that go hand in hand with our warm-weather lifestyle, we must still be diligent about our oral health. Many things we enjoy consuming can cause cavities, staining, and enamel erosion if we do not maintain a regular oral hygiene routine.
The good news is that adopting a few easy habits can help you prevent having to choose between summer fun and a healthy smile.
Common summer culprits for tooth damage
Many people take extra measures to protect their skin and eyes from the sun’s effects during the summer. However, it is also a great idea to watch what we drink, especially when it comes to beverages that can affect our oral health.
For example, few things are as tempting as iced coffees, iced cappuccinos, and iced teas when the temperature starts to rise. The problem is that, like regular coffee and tea, these beverages can also stain teeth over time. This is due to a substance they contain called tannin, which can stick to the surface of the teeth and cause a yellowish-brown discolouration.
Another popular summertime beverage is citrus drinks, such as lemonade and orange juice. Although citrus can be beneficial to overall health, these beverages are very acidic and can damage your tooth enamel. The enamel is the hard outer layer of your tooth that protects the soft dentin and pulp within. Acids in citrus drinks can wear away at your enamel, creating pockets where bacteria can attack the dentin, potentially leading to cavities and tooth decay.
Slushies, sports drinks, and sugary sodas might provide sweet refreshment under the sun, but their effect on your teeth is anything but sweet. These products are high in sugar, potentially leading to cavities if left unchecked.
Other beverages of concern are wines and cocktails. Although among the favourites of patio season and poolside get-togethers, alcoholic beverages can dry out the mouth. A dry mouth inhibits the production of saliva, which helps wash away bacteria and food particles. People with a dry mouth also tend to have bad breath, which can ruin the enjoyment of any summertime event. Furthermore, dark-coloured drinks such as red wine can stain your teeth and diminish the natural brightness of your smile.
Summer oral health tips with the best drinks for healthy teeth
It might seem as if we are telling you not to enjoy the summertime drinks you love. But honest – that is not the case! We want you to make the most of your summer indulgences, but also take steps to protect your teeth and gums from damage. Here are our top tips that will help you accomplish this:
Use a straw to limit contact with the front teeth
When you drink directly from a glass, bottle, or cup, the beverage will hit your front teeth before being swallowed. Using a straw will help the liquid bypass your front teeth, minimizing the risk of sugar, acids, or discolouring agents from sticking.
Rinse with water after acidic or sugary drinks
After enjoying that summer treat, rinse your mouth with water to wash away any foreign matter from your mouth that can damage your teeth and gums, keeping them clean and healthy.
Do not brush immediately after acidic drinks
Knowing what you now know about acidic drinks, you might be tempted to brush your teeth immediately after that last swallow. However, there is a risk that you will push the acid deeper into your tooth surface, paving the way for tooth sensitivity, enamel erosion, and tooth decay.
It is best to wait 30 minutes before brushing, during which time your saliva works to neutralize acids and helps your enamel re-mineralize, making it harder and more resistant.
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Staying hydrated with water supports saliva production, which keeps your mouth clean and moist, prevents bacterial growth, and reduces the likelihood of a dry mouth that can lead to bad breath.
Smart swaps for smile-friendly alternatives
Another great tooth-friendly strategy is to swap out traditional summertime favourites for some great alternatives that are easier on your oral health.
For example, protect teeth from sugary drinks by leaving soda pop on the shelf and reaching for infused water products instead. These beverages are growing in popularity because they keep you hydrated while providing subtle health benefits that support an active summertime lifestyle.
Instead of pure fruit juices that are high in acid content, try a sparkling drink with added citrus flavour. These beverages also promote hydration and, in many cases, offer additional benefits such as vitamin C and antioxidants.
As for iced coffees and teas, opt for an iced tea beverage that is low in tannins, such as peppermint or rooibos. They are less likely to stain teeth as badly as darker or black teas. Green tea is another good choice if brewed lightly.
Book a summertime appointment with your dentist
One of the best ways to combat the oral health effects of summer beverages is to brush your teeth twice daily, floss before bed, and make an appointment with your dentist for a cleaning and examination toward the end of the season. Your dentist will help you start the school year off or return to work with optimal oral health, ensuring your smile is as bright and healthy as possible.
If you need help with your oral health after the summer or at any time throughout the year, call the experts at Yonge Eglinton Dental. We would love to be part of your oral healthcare journey with expert dental services you can count on.
In the meantime, enjoy the summer, but also take good care of your teeth and gums. Your smile is worth it!
Enjoy healthy teeth and gums all summer long and throughout the year with help from the dental experts at Yonge Eglinton Dental in Toronto
Contact our dental health team when you are ready to optimize your oral health. We will work together to ensure your teeth and gums look great and are as strong and healthy as possible. Make an appointment for an office visit today by calling our office at 416-932-2222 or booking online. We look forward to seeing you!
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