Summer Smiles: Keep Your Teeth Happy in the Heat

Enjoying the Sunshine? Don’t Forget Your Smile!

With the warmer weather upon us, many of our patients at Hermitage Dental Practice are making the most of the sunshine. While we all love a good British heatwave, it's worth taking a moment to consider how the hot weather can affect your oral health. We're not here to dampen your summer spirits, but we do want to help you enjoy the sunshine without compromising your teeth and gums.

Here are a few things to watch out for during this sunny spell:

Staying Hydrated

While severe dehydration is rare, even mild dehydration can lead to problems such as headaches, tiredness, and – crucially – a dry mouth. A lack of saliva creates the ideal environment for harmful bacteria to flourish, increasing your risk of gum disease. A dry mouth now and then isn’t a big issue, but prolonged dehydration over several hot days could put your oral health at risk. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day – it’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your mouth (and body) healthy.

Sugar and Summer Treats

There’s nothing quite like a cold drink or ice lolly on a hot day – but be cautious. Many summer favourites are packed with sugar, and some, like fizzy drinks, are also acidic. This combination can erode enamel and lead to increased tooth sensitivity or decay. Try to enjoy these as occasional treats rather than daily habits. Water remains the best choice to cool off and rinse away lingering sugars.

Heat and Fatigue

Hot weather often leaves us feeling more sluggish than usual, especially after a day in the sun or an evening barbecue with a few drinks. Unfortunately, tiredness can lead to skipping essential parts of your routine – like brushing and flossing before bed. Even one night of neglect can allow sugars and bacteria to build up overnight, especially if you're dehydrated. No matter how tired you are, take a few minutes to clean your teeth properly – your future self will thank you!

Barbecue Cautions

Barbecues are a great way to enjoy the warm evenings, but they can pose a few oral health challenges. Sticky sauces and marinades are often high in sugar and can cling stubbornly to your teeth – even after brushing. If you’ve indulged in sticky or sugary foods, give your mouth a rinse with water shortly afterwards and take extra care during your evening oral hygiene routine. Don’t rush through brushing and flossing – it’s worth that little bit of extra effort.

If you don’t currently floss, summer is a great time to start. Food particles and plaque often build up between the teeth, which is a common area for decay. If you're unsure how to floss effectively, one of our friendly dental hygienists will be happy to show you the proper technique during your next visit.

Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

If you notice any new symptoms during this period – such as sensitive teeth, bleeding gums, or persistent dryness – don’t wait for them to worsen. Get in touch with us to arrange a dental health review so we can take a closer look and provide any necessary treatment.

To book an appointment, simply give Hermitage Dental Practice a call or use the contact form on our website. Let’s keep your smile healthy and bright all summer long.

Enjoy the sunshine – and don’t forget to care for your teeth while you do!