BBQs and Picnics? How to Protect Your Teeth During the Summer
Summer in Austin means sunny days, live music, and outdoor fun… but it can also be a tough time for your teeth.
Don’t let a good time create a tough time for later down the road. Here at Goehring Dental in Austin, TX we care about your dental health! Here’s how you can protect your teeth this summer…
Stay Hydrated, with Water!
From Barton Springs to backyard BBQs, it’s easy to reach for sweet teas or sodas to beat the heat in Austin. But the sugar and acid in these drinks can damage enamel. Opt for a low sugar drink - or even better, stick with hydrating water! Water will not only keep you hydrated but helps rinse away food particles and neutralizes acid buildup.
Watch Out for Sticky and Sugary Snacks
Austin’s summer festivals and food trucks (our favorite scenes 😎) are full of temptations—from candied pecans to sweet BBQ sauces. Sticky treats cling to enamel and increase cavity risk. So what are some healthier alternatives? Hydrating and healthy fruit such as watermelon or chilled cantaloupe from local farmers markets for sugary snacks. Grilled veggie skewers over glazed meats instead of sweet BBQ sauces.
Don’t Chew Ice
Nothing beats the heat like some cold ICE. With Austin's triple-digit temps, chewing ice might seem harmless. However, it is one of the fastest ways to chip or crack a tooth—or worse, damage a dental crown or veneer. Frozen fruit like grapes or berries are a safer way to cool off without risking a dental emergency.
Wear Mouthguards for Summer Sports
From paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake to skateboarding downtown, summer sports can be risky for smiles. A custom mouthguard offers far better protection than a generic over the counter version — just sayin’! It will not only fit better but it will last longer. This is ideal for kids in summer camps or adult sports leagues.
Don’t Skip Brushing and Flossing (even when it’s so tempting while on vacation)
Whether you are taking a weekend trip to Hill Country or camping out at Hamilton Pool, your oral care routine shouldn’t take a vacation. We recommend travel-sized dental kits, or suggest that you rinse with water when brushing isn’t possible. A quick floss at night goes a long way toward preventing plaque buildup. You can thank us later 😆. Have a great summer y’all!
Keep your smile healthy this summer, and always!
Contact Goehring Dental today for a teeth cleaning and your annual check up. Give us a call at (512) 892-8822 or contact us by filling out the form below.
