Summer brings plenty of reasons to smile, but it can also introduce unique challenges for your oral health. It makes sense that your increased consumption of sugary treats and beverages can take a toll on your mouth, but that’s not all: Florida’s weather, specifically the heat and humidity, also affects your teeth and gums.
In today’s blog post, let’s explore some ways that the heat and humidity impact your oral health.
1. Dehydration and dry mouth
Your mouth uses saliva to help wash away food particles, reduce harmful bacteria, and neutralize acids. During the summer months, higher temperatures increase fluid loss through sweat — which means that, if you aren’t replacing these fluids, your mouth may become drier than usual. Decreased saliva may cause bad breath, gum inflammation, and a higher risk of cavities.
Don’t ignore common symptoms of dry mouth, including a sticky feeling in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, mouth sores, and increased thirst. Instead, contact your dentist to identify the underlying cause and discuss strategies for keeping your mouth healthy and comfortable.
2. Intensified bacterial growth
The warm, humid air creates conditions that foster bacterial growth, which increases your risk of plaque and gum disease.
3. Higher intake of sugary foods and drinks
On hot days, you may find yourself reaching for another beverage like an iced coffee, energy drink, lemonade, soda, or sports drink. Instead of drinking them solo, try enjoying them with a meal and rinsing your mouth with water afterwards.
During vacations or afternoons spent at the pool, you may naturally gravitate towards treats like ice cream, mixed drinks, and other seasonal favorites. With an increased consumption of sugar comes weakened enamel and other risks to your oral health.
4. Irritation and canker sores
Heat and humidity can worsen canker sores and other infections in your mouth, making it more difficult to keep your mouth healthy.
Additionally, summer sports and travel may interrupt your daily dental care routines.
Summer often means more outdoor activities, including summer camps for your kids, as well as biking, boating, and swimming for the whole family. To protect your smile and avoid dental injuries, wear a mouthguard during high-intensity exercise or competition. Make sure you have your dentist’s phone number handy for any trauma or dental emergencies.
Chances are, your summer also includes travel plans. In an effort to lean into the rest-and-relaxation vibes on vacation, you may enjoy extra snacks, soda, and alcoholic beverages. You may forget to floss or even skip your bedtime brushing.
To hold yourself accountable, consider packing an on-the-go-oral care kit. You can include a toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss, and mini mouthwash.
With proper hydration and dental care, you can manage the oral health concerns caused by heat and humidity.
Here’s a quick checklist to keep your smile healthy this summer:
- Stay hydrated with water throughout the day.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks.
- Wear a mouthguard during high-intensity activities and sports.
- Stick with your daily brushing and flossing routines while traveling.
- Pack an on-the-go oral care kit for busy days!
- Schedule your biannual dental visits as needed.
We hope you’ll choose Maitland Ave Smile Co. for your family’s dental needs this summer!
Call us at (407) 834-0330 to schedule your appointment today! Check out our Dental Blog to learn more about topics like restorative dentistry, dental anxiety, and more.