- (562) 445-3363
- 8077 Florence Ave, #107
- Downey, CA 90240
- Hablamos Español
Summer is a time for sunshine, spontaneity, and all sorts of fun—from beach outings and pool parties to sports leagues and backyard barbecues. While you're enjoying everything the season has to offer, it's easy to overlook one important detail: your oral health. Summer activities can expose your teeth to new risks, whether it's from increased physical activity, sugary treats, or changes in routine.
At Downey Dental Arts, we’re all about helping you protect your smile so you can enjoy summer without the stress of unexpected dental issues. By taking a few proactive steps, you can keep your teeth safe, healthy, and looking great all season long.
From sports-related injuries to sugary indulgences, summer comes with unique challenges that can put your teeth at risk. Here are a few of the biggest culprits:
Summer sports, bike rides, swimming, and backyard games are great ways to stay active, but they also increase your chances of dental trauma. Accidental falls or collisions can lead to chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth.
Ice cream, snow cones, soda, lemonade—while delicious, these seasonal favorites are often loaded with sugar and acid that can erode enamel and fuel cavity-causing bacteria.
Vacations and relaxed summer schedules can lead to skipped brushing and flossing sessions, especially for kids and teens.
Spending time in the sun without staying hydrated can dry out your mouth, reducing saliva production. Saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles, so less of it means higher cavity risk.
The good news? With a little planning and awareness, you can enjoy every summer adventure without putting your oral health on the line. Here’s how:
Whether you or your child is playing basketball, skateboarding, or participating in contact sports, a custom mouthguard is one of the most effective tools for preventing dental injuries.
Benefits of a mouthguard include:
We offer custom-fit mouthguards at Downey Dental Arts that are more comfortable and effective than store-bought options.
Water isn’t just essential for your body—it’s also crucial for your oral health. Drinking water helps:
Pro tip: Carry a reusable water bottle with you everywhere and encourage kids to drink water between meals and snacks.
While it’s okay to indulge occasionally, try to limit how often you consume:
Better choices include:
If you do have a sugary or acidic treat, rinse your mouth with water afterward to reduce the impact.
Chewing ice is a surprisingly common habit, especially in hot weather—but it can be seriously harmful to your teeth. Ice can crack or chip teeth and damage existing dental work like fillings or crowns.
Instead of chewing ice, opt for:
Don’t let summer travel or changes in schedule derail your oral hygiene routine. Be sure to:
Travel tip: Bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss in your carry-on or day bag to stay fresh on the go.
The start of summer is a great time to book a routine exam and cleaning. This allows us to:
If your kids are due for their back-to-school checkups, booking early in the summer ensures you avoid the last-minute rush.
Some seasonal behaviors are especially tough on teeth. Here’s how to handle them:
Spending hours in chlorinated pools can erode tooth enamel over time—especially if the pH level is off.
Protect your teeth by:
Long summer days and open access to the kitchen can lead to more frequent snacking, which increases your risk of cavities.
Tips to reduce the impact:
If you're planning a summer smile refresh with professional teeth whitening, be mindful that recently whitened teeth may be more sensitive to cold foods and drinks. Also, be sure to use SPF lip balm to protect your lips from UV damage.
Even with the best preparation, accidents happen. Here’s how to handle common summer dental emergencies:
Summer is all about fun, freedom, and living life to the fullest—but don’t let a dental emergency put your plans on hold. With a few smart precautions and a consistent oral care routine, you can protect your teeth and keep your smile healthy all season long.
At Downey Dental Arts, we’re here to help you prevent problems before they start and respond quickly if the unexpected happens. Whether it’s time for a summer checkup, you need a custom mouthguard, or you’ve experienced a dental injury, our caring team is ready to support you. Call us today to schedule your appointment and enjoy a healthy, worry-free summer—smiles included!
CALL (562) 445-3363
OR
REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT NOW!
