7 Summer Habits That Could Be Damaging Your Teeth

Summer is a time for holidays, barbecues, ice creams and making memories with family and friends. While it's a season many of us look forward to, some common summer habits can have an unexpected impact on our oral health.

At Boldmere Dental Practice in Sutton Coldfield, we often see patients returning from their summer holidays with chipped teeth, increased sensitivity or even toothache that could have been prevented. The good news is that with a few simple changes, you can enjoy everything summer has to offer while keeping your smile healthy.

1. Sipping Sugary Drinks Throughout the Day

Whether it's fizzy drinks, iced coffees, fruit juices or cocktails by the pool, sugary and acidic drinks are often enjoyed more frequently during the warmer months.

Every sip exposes your teeth to acids and sugars that weaken the enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay. If you're drinking these beverages over several hours, your teeth don't get the chance to recover.

Top tip: Try to drink sugary drinks with meals rather than sipping them throughout the day. Water is always the best choice for your teeth and helps keep your mouth hydrated.

2. Crunching on Ice Cubes

It may seem harmless to chew on the ice left in your drink, but ice is surprisingly hard.

Chewing ice can:

• Chip or crack teeth

• Damage existing fillings or crowns

• Cause sensitivity

• Put unnecessary pressure on your jaw joints

If you enjoy cold drinks, let the ice cool your drink rather than chewing it.

3. Snacking More Often

Summer holidays often mean picnics, barbecues, road trips and days out where snacks are always within reach.

Unfortunately, frequent snacking means your teeth are constantly exposed to sugars and carbohydrates, giving plaque bacteria more opportunities to produce harmful acids.

Healthier snack choices include:

• Cheese

• Plain yoghurt

• Nuts

• Fresh vegetables

• Fresh fruit eaten with meals

If you do enjoy sweet treats, try to have them in one sitting rather than grazing throughout the day.

4. Forgetting Your Oral Hygiene Routine

When routines change, brushing and flossing can sometimes be forgotten.

Late nights, travelling or staying in hotels can all disrupt your normal habits.

Even while you're away, remember to:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Clean between your teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes

• Drink plenty of water

• Replace your toothbrush if it's becoming worn

Packing a small travel dental kit makes it much easier to maintain your routine wherever you are.

5. Dehydration

Warm weather increases the risk of dehydration, especially if you're spending lots of time outdoors.

Saliva plays an important role in protecting your teeth by washing away food particles and neutralising harmful acids. A dry mouth increases the risk of tooth decay and bad breath.

To help keep your mouth healthy:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Limit alcohol and sugary drinks.

• Chew sugar-free gum if your mouth feels dry.

  
  

6. Opening Packaging with Your Teeth

It can be tempting to use your teeth to open crisp packets, bottles or plastic packaging during a picnic or barbecue.

However, your teeth are designed for chewing food—not as tools.

Using your teeth this way can lead to:

• Chipped teeth

• Cracked teeth

• Broken fillings

• Damage to veneers or crowns

Always reach for scissors or a bottle opener instead.

7. Playing Sports Without a Mouthguard

Summer is a popular time for football, rugby, hockey, cycling and other outdoor activities.

Unfortunately, dental injuries are common during sport and can happen in an instant.

A professionally made mouthguard offers much greater protection than a shop-bought version, helping reduce the risk of:

• Broken teeth

• Knocked-out teeth

• Lip injuries

• Damage to braces

If you or your child regularly play contact sports, speak to our team about a custom-made mouthguard.

Keep Your Smile Healthy This Summer

Summer should be about enjoying yourself, not dealing with dental problems.

Simple habits like staying hydrated, brushing regularly, making sensible food choices and protecting your teeth during sport can make a huge difference to your oral health.

If you're planning a holiday or simply want peace of mind before the summer continues, now is an ideal time to book a dental examination or hygiene appointment.

Our friendly team at Boldmere Dental Practice is here to help patients across Sutton Coldfield and the surrounding areas keep their smiles healthy all year round.