There’s nothing like summer. It’s a time to kick back, fire up the grill, and chill. However, we can never really relax about our oral care. Dental awareness is that important. So, we have tips that will keep you out of the dentist’s chair for any emergency summertime visits.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

The amount of water in the human body ranges from 50-75%. Most people feel thirsty when they’ve lost 2-3% of their body’s water. Often, in the summer, we become dehydrated before we start to feel thirsty due to perspiration. Combine thirst with sweat and dehydration quickly becomes a problem. Dehydration sometimes leads to an oral care problem known as dry mouth.

Beware of ice.

We love cold drinks to cool us down from the heat, but please don’t chew on the ice. It’s a hard habit to break, but it’s a habit that can break or chip a tooth. Ice also tears up your gums. Few things will send you rushing to the dentist’s office faster than the pain of injured teeth and gums.

Listen to the lifeguard.

Make sure kids (and adults) adhere to the “pool rules.” According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), many summer oral injuries are due to pool accidents. Running on slippery pool decks, diving into shallow waters, or bumping the pool ledge with their mouth causes many children to either chip or knock a tooth loose.

Always be prepared.

If you’re planning to travel, take a dental first aid kit. These are found at most drugstores. Prefer to make your own? The essentials for oral care include, a handkerchief, gauze, a small container with a lid, ibuprofen, and your dentist’s contact information.

Always remember your dental routine doesn’t go on vacation. Brush and floss like you do the rest of the year and we hope your next appointment is as easy and breezy as your summer.