Summertime is finally here—hopefully you’re gearing up for a season filled with sunny days at the beach, poolside shenanigans, evening backyard cookouts and more! But while you’re enjoying yourself this summer, something you should keep in mind is your oral health—there are many things out there that can potentially jeopardize your smile and ruin your fun, including the things you drink! Here are five tips from your dentist to help your smile stay healthy and beautiful this summer.
1. Drink Plenty of Water
Water is the absolute best beverage for your teeth (and your whole body)! Drinking water throughout the day helps to keep your mouth moist and stimulates the natural flow of your saliva. This helps to wash away plaque-causing bacteria and can also freshen your breath. Staying hydrated is also crucial for your well-being; if you don’t already, drink plenty of water daily.
2. Pick Tap Water
Even though bottled water is perfectly fine, especially if you’re on the go, you should consider the benefits of drinking tap water. Tap water often has fluoride added to it, which is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens your enamel and increases your resistance to tooth decay! See if your town or city adds fluoride to the local water supply; the health benefits are terrific!
3. Avoid Soda and Carbonated Drinks
Even though soda and other carbonated drinks are tasty and a great way to cool off during those hot summer days, these beverages are often quite sugary and acidic. Frequently enjoying them can lead to your tooth enamel becoming damaged and worn down. Not to mention, many of these drinks also contain staining agents that can discolor your teeth!
4. Use A Straw
Using a straw can greatly reduce the amount of contact between your teeth and carbonated beverages. This can also help you finish your drink quickly, rather than slowly sipping it over time.
5. Try Drinking Tea
Tea actually has many health benefits; it contains compounds that suppress bacteria, which in turn can slow down the development of tooth decay and gum disease. Just be mindful of the sugary additives and staining ingredients that are sometimes present in tea.
Regular oral hygiene is important, and the beverages that you drink can directly influence your mouth and teeth. To preserve your oral health this summer, be mindful of what you’re drinking and how you’re drinking it!
About the Author
Dr. Anthony Giamberardino received his dental doctorate from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and has served patients in the Medford community since 1993! Dr. Giamberardino is a member of many professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the Massachusetts Dental Society, and he’s received the Harvard Community Health Plan Diamond Award for his excellence in patient care. If you have any questions for Dr. Giamberardino or would like to schedule an appointment, feel free to contact him through his website or by phone: (781) 396-3800.