Summer introduces a range of risks that have a significant impact on patients’ oral health, particularly when compounded. Dental professionals are in the unique position to support patients by offering proactive advice before reactive care is required.
Rising temperatures encourage increased physical activity – from summer sports to outdoor walks – which in turn raises the likelihood of dehydration. As mentioned by Global Health & Pharma, even mild dehydration is enough to reduce salivary flow, which plays a critical role in mechanical cleansing and remineralisation of the enamel. When salivary production drops, plaque accumulation is facilitated and acids can severely impact dentine and soft tissue. Patients may not connect their water consumption levels with their oral health, making it incredibly important conversation to have when approaching or within summer.
Ice lollies, sugary cold drinks, citrus fruits, and barbecue sauces are summer staples for many… each of which carry risk. The issue extends beyond sugar content to the frequency of exposure. Snacking throughout the day is a more common practice, as patients are at their homes less often throughout the warmer months. As such, enamel is repeatedly met with acid challenges without having the adequate recovery time between them, augmenting demineralisation. On-the-go eating also means patients are often away from their toothbrush, leaving teeth exposed for longer.
Research indicates that over 35% of dental trauma cases occur during the summer months, driven by higher participation in contact sports, outdoor activities, and travel. Boned, charred, or tough foods, like barbequed meats, also add mechanical stress to the dentition – and more so to restorations such as crowns and inlays. Advising patients to wear mouthguards during high-risk activities and to identify dental services before travelling to their holiday destination are simple but effective preventive steps that can help salvage both teeth and treatment costs.
The increase in travel and schedule irregularities mean that even the most diligent and proactive patients could let their oral hygiene routines slip. Missed brushing sessions and less thorough or comprehensive cleaning, even for just a few weeks, can allow plaque to develop. Clinicians should offer realistic advice like consistency in brushing times and carrying portable interdental tools to mitigate any risks.
Each oral health threat might appear minor individually, but when combine they create an environment where oral disease can flourish. Dental professionals should deliver preventive, targeted advice that makes a difference – both during summer and long-term.
>Since you’re here, why not read about diabetes control and its impact on gum bleeding?
Main image credit: Unsplash
