Summer is the time for playing, sports, vacations, and so much more! However it can also expose your kids to more dental risks than normal. Here are some smile safety tips for your kids to keep their smiles safe this summer!
Summer Smile Safety Tips
Wear an Athletic Mouth Guard During Contact Sports
As you may know, playing contact sports can lead to injuries. If your child plays a contact sport, we highly recommend having them wear a custom athletic mouth guard. Not only will this protect their teeth from broken or knocked-out teeth, but it can prevent cuts to their lips, gums, and tongue and reduce the risk of jaw injuries. It can also help reduce the severity of a concussion by absorbing shock during a bad fall or hit. While over-the-counter mouth guards will work, a custom mouth guard will offer the most protection.
Limit The Consumption of Sugary Sports Drinks and Soda
During summer, kids often consume more sugary drinks than normal. Whether they’re outside playing sports and need to rehydrate or are on vacation drinking more juices and sodas than normal, it’s important to watch their intake as too much sugar can lead to cavities and other dental problems. If they do drink something more sugary, have them rinse their mouth with water to wash away any lingering bacteria.
Set Them Up for Dental Success at Sleepovers
Sleepovers are so fun for kids, whether they’re staying at a friend’s house or at a relative’s. Make sure they are set up for success by ensuring that they packed a toothbrush and floss, and encourage them to follow their normal dental routine while away.
Keep Them Hydrated with a Reusable Water Bottle
Did you know that dehydration can lead to tooth decay and other dental problems? Drinking water plays an important part in washing away bad bacteria that can cause cavities. This can also help with bad breath.
Keep Their Lips Protected with SPF Chapstick
When we’re applying sunscreen, sometimes we forget that our lips can get burnt too. Not only is this painful, but it can lead to blisters and chapped lips. Make sure to invest in a good SPF chapstick that you can carry with you and your family members all summer.
Conclusion
We hope these smile safety tips will help keep your kids’ smiles big and healthy this summer! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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Pediatric Dentist in Bloomington, MN and St. Louis Park, MN
If you are looking for a new pediatric dentist in Bloomington, MN or St. Louis Park, MN, we would love to work with you and your family! You can make an appointment online at one of our dental locations and we’d be happy to get you started on your family’s journey to a healthy, beautiful smile!