Keep smiles bright and healthy during summer vacations

With all the summer fun and trips in the mix, dental health can be especially tricky for kids. Dr. Mandy Shearer with Soddy Daisy Smiles notes that even if families are on the go and enjoying some down time together, it's just as important to keep up those brushing and flossing habits and not let them slack to avoid problems down the road.

"Parents tend to schedule dental checkups in August, right before class starts," she shared. "But to prevent dental problems over summer, get in as soon as you can when school is out. This way, the kids have a clean bill of dental health for summer. The last thing you want is a child suffering from a toothache while away on summer vacation."

Dr. Robert Shearer went on to share how making sure the family snack stash is full of fruits and veggies clean and ready to grab to help avoid the "quick and easy" summer junk food that can wreak dental havoc on kids' teeth.

Dr. Mandy added that patients should continue brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day. Brushing calendars and apps on your phone can be helpful reminders to keep you on track if you're traveling a lot during the summer or breaking your normal routine at home in any way.

Another tip that's helpful is to say no to too many sugar drinks and snacks.

"While you need to stay more hydrated during the summer months and it can be easy to grab the energy or sports drink for electrolytes, make sure you dilute them with water if it's a must, or if possible just stick with upping your water intake to begin with," Dr. Mandy said.

Having ready to eat fruits and veggies on hand will also help with snacking smarter and allow you to avoid the temptation of ice cream and candy when you're on the go.

It's also a good idea to have your dentist's office emergency contact info on hand, especially if you're going to be traveling during the summer.

"A lot of times we can help resolve problems or questions over the phone, and if we can't, we can get you a referral easier than you could on your own," Dr. Robert shared.

If you want to make sure your smile is photo ready before you hit the road, Soddy Daisy Smiles also offers a one-hour in office whitening service.

"It's a great way to get that one last quick check in and know your smile is white and confident before you leave and make all those special memories," Dr. Mandy said.

Traveling with your toothbrush also comes with a few tips to keep in mind such as making sure to let it air dry, according to Dr. Mandy. If that's not possible, she says that resusable and sealed plastic bags are the next best thing.

"It's more important to keep your toothbrush separated from contact with other objects that could add germs and bacteria that you don't want," Dr. Mandy noted.

To help keep smiles and teeth healthy and for more information on summer care and tips, Soddy Daisy Smiles offers services and consultations for current and new patients of all ages.

For more information about Soddy Daisy Smiles and their services, call the office at 423-332-5575 or visit soddydaisysmiles.com.

Noteworthy:

"To prevent dental problems over summer, get in as soon as you can when school is out. This way, the kids have a clean bill of dental health for summer. The last thing you want is a child suffering from a toothache while away on summer vacation." Dr. Mandy Shearer

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visit soddydaisysmiles.com or call us at 423-332-5575

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