Staying active is great for maintaining good overall health, whether you’re a kid or an adult. However, to stay safe during the summer you need to be hydrated, replenishing the water you lose from the Texas heat. For many kids and adults in Richardson, TX, the most popular way to do this is to grab a sports drink. However, many of these beverages could pose a serious risk for your smile!
Sports Drinks and Tooth Decay
We enjoy these beverages because they taste good. However, they taste good because they contain sugars, and many also have a high acidic content. Which means when we drink them, they leave behind particles for bacteria to break down, causing plaque buildup and weakening the outer protective layer of tooth enamel. The acidic content also weakens tooth enamel, causing erosion and allowing bacteria to reach the inner layers of dentin. More sensitive than enamel, the dentin is where cavities form. Not to mention, when we’re active in warm weather this tends to cause dry mouth and limit saliva production, your body’s natural means of removing food and drink particles from your smile. Combined with sugary and acidic drinks, this is a recipe for cavities!
The Importance of Water
Water contains no sugars and no acids. You stay hydrated without putting your smile at risk. In fact, our tap water actually contains fluoride, a naturally-occurring mineral that helps strengthen outer tooth enamel and safeguards smiles against the onset of tooth decay. Consider drinking water instead of sports drinks and if you must drink one, chase it with a little bit of water to help rinse away the sugary particles and acidic content. Also, consider what you snack on. Snacks high in sugar also lead to tooth decay, so pairing water with fresh fruits and veggies, low-fat yogurts or cheese, or nuts, can help reduce the risk of cavities.
See Us for a Summer Exam
Make time to bring your family in for a checkup and cleaning. During the visit, we will look at the teeth and gums for signs of developing decay and periodontal issues, creating a plan to treat these in the early stages, before they can put your oral health at risk. Our team also cleans the teeth, which helps people of all ages enjoy a healthier smile, fresher breath, and brighter teeth. If you have any questions about preventing cavities during the summer, or about healthy snack and drink options, then contact our team today.
Stay Hydrated and Healthy!
We want to help your family enjoy optimal oral health throughout these long summer days. For more information on improving oral health, schedule a consultation by calling the Viva Dental Family Dentistry office nearest you at (214) 337-7800 (Dallas) or (972) 437-6000 (Richardson).
