Summer is a time for fun in the sun, longer days, and well-deserved relaxation. Whether you’re heading out on a family vacation, planning backyard BBQs, or letting the kids enjoy their freedom from school, this season often brings changes in our routines—and that includes how we care for our teeth.
While we all deserve a break, your oral health shouldn’t take one. Developing and maintaining healthy summer habitscan help you and your family enjoy the season without sacrificing your smile. At Granville Smiles, we’re here to help you keep dental care simple, consistent, and effective all summer long.
Why Summer Habits Matter
When our schedules change, it’s easy to let certain routines slide. But your mouth is still working hard every day—especially with more frequent snacking, sugary treats, and increased outdoor activity. Paying attention to your summer habits is essential for preventing cavities, enamel wear, and dental emergencies.
Smart Summer Habits for Every Smile
Here are some key summer habits you can practice to protect your oral health while still enjoying everything the season has to offer:
1. Stay Hydrated — With Water
Hot temperatures mean we’re all reaching for more to drink, but what you choose to hydrate with can make a big difference for your teeth. Water is the best option for your overall health and for your smile. It helps rinse away bacteria and food particles, supports saliva production, and keeps your mouth feeling fresh.
Try to limit sugary beverages like soda, lemonade, and sports drinks, which are often acidic and full of sugar. If you do enjoy one, follow it up with a glass of water to help neutralize acid and reduce sugar’s impact.
2. Don’t Break Your Brushing Routine
One of the easiest summer habits to lose track of is daily brushing and flossing. Travel, sleepovers, and busy days can throw off even the most consistent routines. But skipping oral care can quickly lead to plaque buildup and cavities.
Aim to brush twice a day for two minutes, and floss once a day. If you’re on the go, travel toothbrushes and floss picks can be lifesavers. Keep a small kit in your bag or car so you’re never without your basics, even during a road trip or camping weekend.
3. Watch the Summer Snacks
With more time at home (or on the move), kids and adults alike tend to snack more frequently during the summer. Ice cream, popsicles, chips, and chewy candies are common go-to’s, but they’re also tough on teeth. Sticky or sugary snacks can linger on your enamel and feed cavity-causing bacteria.
Instead, choose snacks that support oral health. Fresh fruits like apples and strawberries, crunchy veggies like carrots and cucumbers, and dairy products like cheese and yogurt are all great choices. These options are not only delicious—they also help clean teeth and provide important nutrients like calcium.
4. Protect Your Smile During Sports and Play
Outdoor play and summer sports are a blast—but accidents can happen in an instant. One hard fall or stray ball could result in a chipped or knocked-out tooth. A simple but important summer habit is wearing a mouthguard during any activity where there’s a risk of impact, such as baseball, soccer, or skateboarding.
Custom-fit mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort. If your child is playing sports this summer, talk to us about having one made to keep their teeth safe.
5. Schedule a Summer Checkup
Summer is the perfect time to catch up on dental visits, especially before the busy back-to-school season begins. A professional cleaning and exam can help prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems—and gives you peace of mind heading into the fall.
Our team at Granville Smiles is here to make your visit comfortable, easy, and stress-free. If it’s been a while since your last appointment, now is a great time to get back on track.
Keep Your Smile Bright All Season Long
By being mindful of your summer habits, you can keep your smile healthy and strong no matter how full your calendar is. With a little consistency and smart choices, your whole family can enjoy the season while maintaining great oral health.
If you have questions or need to schedule a visit, contact our team today. We’re here to support your healthiest, happiest smile—this summer and beyond.
