Many families look forward to their summer vacations – as they should! But if you’re not careful, an untimely dental emergency could quickly turn your smiles into frowns. To keep the fun and good vibes going, follow these five preventive tips. A little forethought can go a long way towards protecting your family’s teeth during summer vacation!
1. Review and Enforce Pool Safety
Perhaps unsurprisingly, poolside accidents are one of the most common causes of summertime dental emergencies. Excited kids rushing to get into the water might find themselves slipping on the concrete and losing a tooth, while swimming underwater and coming up for air suddenly can result in a collision if you’re not paying attention. Diving into the shallow end, of course, can be downright dangerous! Review and stress the importance of pool safety before letting your family take a dip.
2. Get Custom Mouthguards for Active Kiddos – and Adults
Summer is also a popular time for sports and physical activities. If your family likes to stay active, ask your dentist for some customized mouthguards. Children and adults alike can encounter dental damage if their teeth aren’t properly protected from physical impacts and sport-related accidents.
3. Be Mindful of Snacking Habits
Sugary snacks like ice cream and s’mores might not immediately cause a dental emergency, but sugar does accelerate oral bacteria growth. Too many sweet treats can quickly lead to plaque and tartar build up; the root cause of issues like cavities and gum disease! Be mindful of what your family eats during summer vacation and be sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet.
4. Stay On Top of Oral Hygiene
There’s one other thing that causes plaque and tartar buildup: failing to brush your teeth! Cleaning your pearly whites twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and once daily with dental floss is how you remove oral bacteria from your smile. It’s a good idea to remind everyone to stay on top of their oral hygiene, even during summer vacation!
5. Schedule a Checkup and Cleaning
A dental appointment is probably the last thing you’re thinking about, but consider this: a checkup and cleaning gives your dentist the opportunity to screen for and address potential oral conditions. A stitch in time can save nine, and a timely dental visit can prevent early-stage cavities from interrupting your fun.
Your summer vacation should help you feel rested and rejuvenated, not stressed and anxious! By following these five tips, you can promote your family’s dental health and avoid the headache of a sudden emergency.
About the Author
Dr. Lauri Barge and her team firmly believe in treating their patients like family. If you or a loved one needs emergency dental care near Flower Mound, they’ll see you as soon as possible and make sure your needs are addressed quickly. They’ll also be happy to share more tips for preventing dental emergencies during your summer vacation! To contact Dr. Barge’s office for a same-day emergency appointment or other dental concerns, call 972-539-3800.