Contributed Content
Image Source
With the summer now in full swing, many of us will be making our way to the park or the beach. And when we get there, we want to make sure that we look our best.
In this post, we’re going to create a summer teeth care checklist – things you need to do to keep your teeth and mouth looking great over the long, hot months of July, August, and September.
Drink Green Tea
Green tea is one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal for keeping your teeth looking shiny and white. Yes – it’s tea. But it’s a special kind of tea that doesn’t leave dark stains in your mouth like the regular version. Plus, green tea contains powerful antibacterial properties, helping to kill many of the nasty microbes that damage your gums if left unchecked.
Try Drinking Through A Straw
Many people imagine that drinking through a straw will give them smokers’ lips. But don’t worry, it’s just an old wives’ tale. Unless you’re sucking with all the force you can muster, you’re not going to adjust the shape of your lips significantly. What’s more, when you drink through a straw, you minimize the length of time the liquid stays in contact with your teeth, reducing decay.
Use Tap Water
Over the summer, you’ll need to stay hydrated. Many of you will reach for the mineral water, but did you know that regular tap water is better for your health?
Water utilities in many areas add fluoride to drinking water. The hope is that it will help to harden teeth, reducing the number of people having to seek dental care for cavities and decay.
Upgrade Your Braces
Traditional wire and post braces are effective at straightening your teeth, but they’re a bit of an eyesore. Invisible braces, on the other hand, do the same thing, but without the aesthetic costs.
These are mostly plasticated aligners that slowly move your teeth from their current location to the new position. Each new retainer pushes the teeth closer to their final place, with treatment taking around six months from start to finish for most people.
Don’t Drink Carbonated Drinks
Sparkling wines and water are delicious, but they’re not risk-free. The bubbles in carbonated drinks can actually wear down your enamel and leave your teeth in a weaker state because of carbonic acid. Like all acids you put in your mouth, it can dissolve your teeth’ enamel, leaving it softer and more vulnerable.
Skip The Sorbet
Sorbet is a favourite summer treat. It’s light, refreshing, and delicious. There’s just one problem: it’s bad for your teeth. Sorbet, like soda, is a bit of a double-whammy for your teeth. Not only does it contain high levels of sugar, but it is also highly acidic. It’s okay to indulge a couple of times a month, but any more than that and you could be putting your gnashers at risk.
So there you have it: your summer teeth care checklist. How does your routine stack up?