(231) 737-2273
Appointment
Summertime is finally here, and you’re probably getting ready for a season filled with family, friends, food, and lots of fun! However, no matter what your plans are, something you should be conscious of is the possibility of experiencing a dental emergency. That said, you don’t have to sit there and worry about it happening—you can still enjoy yourself, as long as you take the correct precautions! Here are four useful tips for avoiding dental emergencies this summer so you can focus on having a terrific time.
#1. Stick to a Healthy Summertime Diet
Many of us enjoy frozen and chilled sweets and treats during the summertime, including snow cones, popsicles, chilled sodas, and more. Even though these items are perfect for cooling off on a hot day, they aren’t exactly teeth-friendly and can expedite issues like tooth decay and gum disease. You should strive to consume fewer of these items in favor of healthier options, like fruits, veggies, yogurt, lean proteins, and more. You should also drink plenty of water; it doesn’t just keep you hydrated, but also encourages the flow of saliva in your mouth which is your first line of defense against cavities!
#2. Have a Dental Emergency Kit Standing By
Take a page from the Boy Scouts Handbook and be prepared! This doesn’t need to be anything expensive or fancy, but having a small kit ready in the event of a dental emergency can ensure that if something does happen, you aren’t entirely powerless. Include a few essential items like:
- A card including your dentist’s name and phone number
- Gauze or a clean handkerchief
- Saline solution
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- A small plastic container for displaced teeth or restorations
#3. Practice Sports Safety
If you actively participate in sports, outdoor games, or physical activities, you should be sure to take the proper safety precautions. A vast majority of dental emergencies occur during both contact and non-contact sports alike, so wearing a protective mouthguard when playing can go quite a long way (this is very advisable if you have braces). You can talk with your dentist about receiving a customized mouthguard. Swimming pool accidents are also fairly common during the summer, so show sensible caution when swimming.
#4. Schedule a Dental Checkup
Whether you’re planning a cross-country vacation or a quiet staycation at home, you should schedule a dental checkup at the beginning of the summer season. This will give your dentist the chance to inspect your mouth and ensure that there aren’t any underlying issues that might worsen and turn severe. Not to mention, since most of us have some extra time during the summer, this flexible window also grants your dentist plenty of time to treat anything that might turn problematic!
It’s also worth noting that maintaining excellent oral hygiene at home can effectively prevent emergencies, as a clean mouth is far less likely to encounter issues. By following these tips, you can easily safeguard your smile this summer and ensure that a dental emergency doesn’t spoil your fun!
About the Practice
Laketown Family Dental is excited to serve patients and families in the Norton Shores, MI community! The practice is led by the awesome husband-wife duo of Dr. Ariel Heisser and Dr. Eric Heisser. They’re thrilled to offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, as well as emergency dentistry for all of your urgent needs. If you have any questions about the blog or you or a loved one has suffered a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to contact the practice today for assistance! Telephone: (231) 737-2273.