It is a known fact – kids just smile more in the summer! Camps, sports, sunshine, and pool time are just a few reasons why summer is a great time to be a kid. While all of these activities are sure to keep a family busy, it is important not to neglect those summer smiles. We advise families who come to our Tampa dentist office to take a few extra precautions to keep summer smiles healthy, bright, and trouble-free.
Tips for Swimmers
Did you know six hours a week or more in a swimming pool could put your child’s smile at risk? Swimmer’s calculus happens when continuous exposure to chemically treated water causes hard, brown deposits to form on the front teeth. Treatable with a dental cleaning, swimmer’s calculus is not a serious problem, but it is important to schedule a summer cleaning if your kids swim a lot.
If you have a scuba diver in your family, you need to be aware of a condition called tooth squeeze. This condition causes jaw, gum or tooth pain. It is usually brought on by another condition called diver’s mouth syndrome. It occurs when the diver responds to diving air pressure change by biting too hard on the scuba air regulator. If the diver has a cavity, periodontal abscess, or other dental problem, the pressure change in diving can be extremely painful. Be sure to bring scuba divers in for a summer check up.
Use Mouthguards for Summer Sports.
While you are making sure your summer athletes have their shin guards, elbow pads, and helmets, make sure they also have a mouthguard for summer sports participation. Sports like baseball, football, basketball, and soccer involve the risk of players colliding with the ball, ground, or another player. These collisions too often result in tooth damage or loss. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), reports that mouthguards prevent more than 200,000 injuries each year.
Brush After Summer Sweets.
Vacations, ice cream trucks, and concession stands all provide opportunities to enjoy some wonderful summer sweets. These indulgences are okay – every now and then – but it is a good idea to get in some extra tooth brushing when you indulge. Even a quick rinse with an anti-bacterial mouthwash can help to remove extra sugar, and extra cavity risk, after a double dip cone or some salt water taffy. Remember, the best way to keep campers happy and smiling healthy smiles is with a visit to Weninger Dentistry, your trusted Tampa dental office.