Recent temperatures in the 90s and 100s have all of us at Choice Austin Dental feeling the heat! It’s critical to take the necessary precautions to protect you and your family when the temperatures rise. The summer heat can not only lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, it can also have a negative impact on your teeth! Dr. Hafernik and our team have come up with the following tips to help keep your teeth strong and healthy no matter how hot it gets.

Keep an Eye on Sensitivity

Biting into a cold ice cream cone on a hot day should not be painful. If you notice that your teeth are especially sensitivity to extreme temperatures in weather, foods, and drinks, this may indicate that your gums are receding from your teeth, your enamel is thinning, and/or your teeth are damaged. These can occur from a combination of brushing too vigorously, genetics, teeth grinding, an acidic diet, tooth decay, cracks, and gum disease. Notify us if you experience tooth sensitivity so we can diagnose and treat its cause!

Stay Hydrated

As the temperatures climb, so should your consumption of water. If you wait to drink until you’re thirsty, you aren’t staying hydrated! Dehydration is a common issue during the summer months that will harm your whole body, including your mouth. When you are dehydrated, your saliva production decreases. Decreased saliva can lead to decay, mouth dryness, bad breath, painful sores, and other issues. Saliva is your body’s first line of defense against bacteria and tooth decay because it washes particles off the surface of your teeth and contains enzymes that begin breaking down food, so preserve the health of your mouth and body with ample water.

Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Summer is a time for relaxing and having fun, but don’t take a vacation from superb oral hygiene standards! Be sure that you’re brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes each time, brushing your tongue every day, flossing at least once a day, and visiting Choice Austin Dental every six months for cleanings and exams.

Don’t let tooth sensitivity, dehydration, or poor oral hygiene habits turn your summer into a bummer. To ask our team any questions about keeping your teeth healthy this summer or to schedule your next visit, contact our office today!