In with the warm weather come new conditions and new ways you should be protecting your teeth. With the increase in temperature come cold treats, increasing attention to sensitive teeth. Dehydration in the heat can cause bacteria to thrive and cause problems. Sports drinks, pop and other summer-favorites like lemonade decay teeth with their excess sugar and acidity. Summer conditions may cause a few new problems, but just paying attention to a few key solutions can ensure your summer is healthy, easy, and breezy.
How Tooth Sensitivity Happens
Many discover they have some tooth sensitivity during the summer months. This is largely due to the fact that frozen treats and cold drinks are in abundance to beat the heat. Sensitivity is due to worn down enamel or exposed tooth roots. Several things can cause this to happen. Acidic foods, teeth grinding, abrasive brushing, and certain whitening products can wear down enamel, exposing tubules that lead to the tooth’s nerves and cause pain. When the gums are irritated by disease or even too much mouthwash, they can recede and expose the tooth’s roots. This is another direct route to the tooth’s nerves.
How to Solve Tooth Sensitivity
To help strengthen enamel, make sure to use toothpaste that has fluoride in it. This is a good switch to make for your mouthwash, as well. Make sure your toothbrush’s bristles are not too stiff. Soft bristles and a light touch are all you need to remove plaque. For receded gums, gum disease will need to be cleared up along with keeping good dental habits. To replace gums and cover exposed root, a gum graft can be performed.
Keep Hydrated
Saliva is a natural defense against bacteria in your mouth. The elements in saliva neutralize plaque acids that weaken teeth. In addition, saliva can help repair early decay and damage. So remember, during the hot summer months, we sweat more and lose more water. Make sure to drink plenty of water to replenish lost water and stay hydrated.
Alternatives to Pop, Sports Drinks, and Lemonade
Nothing beats a cold, refreshing drink on a hot summer day. But reaching for the right drink could mean the difference between a healthy, hydrated mouth and a dry mouth prone to cavities. Drinks like pop, sports drinks, and lemonade, while refreshing and tasty, are filled with sugar and acids. Excess sugar can lead to cavities. Even sugar alternatives can end up harming your mouth by drying it out. Acidic drinks like lemonade can damage the enamel on your teeth. Instead, reach for infused water, flavored seltzer, or iced tea. These alternatives are still tasty, and much healthier than sugar loaded or acidic drinks.