Are you getting ready for another awesome summer vacation? Whether you are off to enjoy sunny days at the beach or an exciting overseas destination, there will be so many special memories to make. However, you want every minute of your time off to bring a smile to your face so you want to do all you can to avoid an unexpected event with your oral health. Read on to learn four ways to prevent a dental emergency during your summer vacation.
#1. Visit Your Family Dentist Before You Leave
Maintaining your biannual dental visits is a huge part of keeping your smile whole and healthy. Unfortunately, your summer can sneak up on you and before you know it, you and your family have not had their smiles tended to in a long time. By visiting your family dentist before you leave for your vacation, you ensure that any issues will be caught before they become more serious.
#2. Use Mouthguards
Summer vacations often mean a lot of wonderful time outside. As you and your loved ones enjoy your time together, you may be doing a lot of physical activity. From beach volleyball to touch football, there are plenty of fun sports. However, they can also cause a dental injury that can ruin a day of fun. The good news is that your dentist can provide you and your family with a custom-made mouthguard. This will protect your smile from a chipped, broken, or knocked-out tooth.
#3. Limit Sugary Beverages
It’s easy to reach for a beverage that is full of sugar while on vacation. Lemonade, sodas, and fruity alcoholic beverages may taste delicious, but they can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums. They can fuel the bad bacteria in your mouth that leads to tooth decay and cavities. Try to have bottled water on hand as much as possible. If sugary beverages are the only choice at the moment, grab a straw to limit the contact the liquid will have with your pearly whites. Additionally, rinse your mouth out after drinking the beverage; this will keep your smile free from any remaining sugars and bacteria.
#4. Pick Summer Snacks Carefully
During an active summer vacation, snacks are always a great way to deal with your hunger and keep you going. Nothing can taste more delicious than a great snack after you’ve spent a few hours swimming! The problem is that since you are out of your regular schedule, it can be easy to grab treats that aren’t good for your oral health. These foods may be filled with extra sugar and refined carbohydrates, which can increase the chances of oral health issues like cavities and gum disease. You don’t want to spend your time in a dental chair after your vacation! It’s best to be prepared for a long day out and about. Pack a cooler or bag with your family’s favorite smile-friendly food items. You can include fruits, crunchy vegetables with dips, string cheese, and roasted nuts.
You want to get the most out of your upcoming vacation. By tending to your oral health beforehand and doing some preparation before you leave, you can keep your smile whole and healthy as you enjoy your summer getaway!
About the Practice
Sweet Smiles Family Dentistry keeps the smiles of Mt. Pleasant whole, healthy, and beautiful through the expertise of its two dentists. They provide high-quality comprehensive dental care under one roof to every member of a family. With customized treatment plans and advanced dental technology, they offer a full range of services, including preventive and emergency care. To schedule a same-day appointment, contact them through their website or call (262) 672-2393.