Safeguard Your Smile from These Summer Activities

There’s nothing like that summer state of mind. The days are longer, the grass is greener, and everyone just seems more relaxed. But when it comes to your oral health, it’s important to stay focused. Before you head off to soak up the rays, be sure you’re not making any of these dangerous dental mistakes!

Water, Water Everywhere

Remember when you were a kid playing outside in the backyard, and you suddenly got thirsty? Sure, you could have gone inside for a glass of water, if you’re like most kids, you might have reached for a refreshing drink straight from the garden hose. Though this may have saved time and cooled you down, we now know that water that’s been sitting in a PVC hose can be full of dangerous chemicals that can harm your teeth and gums. PVC contains lead, which can cause lead poisoning as well as tooth decay.

Thankfully, there are many other hose options available today, including lead and PVC free varieties, so if you still want to indulge, consider switching to something safer, and remember to let the water run until it’s cold, as warm water may still contain contaminants.

Blowout Beware

Filling up inflatable pool toys with your mouth can be exhausting, but before you offer to take over and relieve a winded friend, think about the dangers to your teeth. Nasty bacteria like  S. mutans can be easily transferred from mouth to mouth on those little rubber air fill gaskets. Among other bacteria, S. mutans are responsible for causing everything from bad breath to cavities to gum disease.

Instead of using your mouth, invest in an electric or battery-operated air pump and spare yourself the germs. Best of all, your toys will fill up faster, so you’ll have more time to enjoy them!

Take a Deep Dive

Summertime is the perfect season for SCUBA diving, but sometimes the equipment can cause damage to your teeth and gums. Known as “diver’s mouth syndrome,”  a common condition among divers leads them to experience pain in the teeth, gums, and jaw due to poorly fitting gear.

Divers are also at risk for “tooth squeeze” a condition caused by changes in atmospheric pressure which can cause pain if you have untreated cavities, gum disease, or incomplete dental work. Thus, if you do decide to explore the depths this summer, be sure to schedule your dental exam first to make sure your mouth is ready to roll.

Sweet Treats

When it comes to sweets, summer has more than its share of options. From ice cream and popsicles to fair foods like candy apples and cotton candy, tis the season for indulging. But before you bite into that sugary snack, don’t forget about your oral health. Be sure you have a hygiene plan in place to keep your teeth free of sticky sugar and acids that can eat away at your enamel, causing cavities and gum disease. Be sure to follow any treats with water, and if you head out on vacation, don’t forget to pack your toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss!

Ready, Set, Relax!

Now that you know the hidden dental dangers of summer, it’s time to go out there and have some fun. Be sure to reach out to your dentist if you have any questions about protecting your teeth or need to schedule an exam before you take off on your next big adventure!

About Dr. Oshins

Dr. Steven Oshins and the team at Oshins of Smiles believe in giving 110 percent in everything they do. Whether it’s sleep medicine, general dentistry, restorations, or cosmetic procedures, Oshins of Smiles is your one stop for all things oral health.

Dr. Oshins is a proud graduate of the Kois Center, an advanced continuing education program for practicing dentists, and he maintains memberships to many prestigious dental organizations such as the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the New York State Dental Association.

To schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call us at 518-519-3977.