To beat the heat in the summer, one is likely to consume desserts and cold drinks. This can have a negative impact not only on overall health, but also on dental health.
A paediatric dentist warned against excessive consumption of sugary drinks, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated in order to maintain proper dental health.
Avoid sugary drinks and foods
We tend to consume more sugary liquids and soda in summers to quench our thirst. “Excess sugar consumption can lead to plaque formation and can serve as a perfect environment for bacteria to colonise and multiply. This can further lead to tooth damage. You should avoid sugary drinks like cold drinks and opt for healthy fruits and fruit juices.”
Avoid chewing ice
Directly chewing on ice can exacerbate your tooth pain, warned the doctor. “Especially in summers, chewing on ice can lead to sudden temperature variation in the oral cavity. This unexpected thermal change causes sensitivity and pain.”
Keep yourself hydrated
Water is important to keep oral health. Citing the effect of dehydration on dental health, she said, “When you are dehydrated in summers, saliva flow is reduced in the oral cavity. Saliva helps in self cleansing as it washes away food particles and bacteria, thus preventing plaque formation. Sipping water in regular intervals can save you from tooth pain, bleeding gums and halitosis.”
Pop vitamins
The doctor talked about the importance of consuming vitamin C during summers. She said, “Summer leads to dehydration which further leads to weakness, tremors and nausea. It is advisable to take vitamin C to keep your gums healthy and multivitamins to cope with dehydration.”
In addition to this, she insisted on paying careful attention to one’s dental health by brushing twice a day and flossing regularly.
Source:IE