The days are getting longer, and the temperature is climbing, which can only mean one thing – it’s just about summer in Edmond! You’re probably itching to spend your days by the pool, eat meals by the grill, and enjoy nights by a campfire roasting marshmallows. This time of year is actually good for more than just catching up with loved ones and working on your tan. Did you know that spending time in the sun could improve your oral health? Here’s how you can avoid dental problems this summer by getting plenty of sunlight.
The Link Between Sunlight and Dental Health
When it comes to maintaining healthy teeth and gums, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That’s why a solid routine of daily brushing and flossing is key. Additionally, the Journal of Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology recommends spending plenty of time in the sun this summer. Why? Sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, which is essential in keeping your immune system strong enough to fight off infections like gum disease. Vitamin D also encourages healthy bone and teeth.
How to Stay Safe in the Summer Sun
Despite the undeniable benefits of spending time outside during the summer, it’s worth noting that prolonged, unprotected sun exposure poses health risks. Luckily, you can take a few simple precautions to protect your skin.
For one, wear sunscreen every day, including an SPF lip balm. Since you’ll likely be sweating quite a bit, you should also stay hydrated by sipping lots of water throughout the day. Lastly, make sure to treat any sunburns you get with aloe vera and cold showers or baths.
Tips for Keeping Your Smile Healthy This Summer
As important as sunlight is for your oral health, it’s far from the only practice you should adopt this summer. Be sure to also:
- Schedule your dental checkup and cleaning – To catch cavities and other problems early on as well as remove surface stains, you should see your dentist every six months. It’s already almost halfway through 2021, so schedule your appointment if you haven’t yet.
- Remember to floss – Brushing twice a day is crucial, but flossing is the only way to clean between your teeth.
- Eat a nutritious diet – Ice cream and soda are summer staples, but try to incorporate nutrient-rich foods into your diet as well.
- Avoid risky dental habits – Chewing on ice, using your teeth to open bottles, and smoking can all too easily send you straight to an emergency dentist’s office.
Summer is pretty much here, which is wonderful news for your tan and your smile! Make sure to spend a few minutes outside each day; your teeth and gums will appreciate it.
About the Author
Dr. M. Kent Smith has been a family dentist in Edmond, OK for well over 30 years now. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1986 from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. To keep his clinical skills sharp, he routinely completes continuing education courses. If you’d like to learn more about maintaining a healthy smile this summer in Edmond, visit Dr. Smith’s website or call (405) 341-7773.