In summer, don't send your oral hygiene 'on vacation'
In summer, oral hygiene becomes even more necessary.
Usually, with the arrival of the summer season, some healthy habits are relaxed and even temporarily abandoned, including the correct observance of basic oral hygiene measures. Unfortunately, not only is this practice inadvisable, but it becomes even more necessary during the summer.
The truth is that in summer, there is usually an increase of pathogenic bacteria in the mouth due to changes in daily habits. For example, relaxation in oral hygiene and increased consumption of sugar and alcohol increase the risk of oral pathologies in the summer.
There are always millions of bacteria in the oral cavity. The "friendly" bacteria predominate and control the pathogenic bacteria that can cause caries, periodontal disease, or bad breath (halitosis). However, an imbalance can occur, which is called dysbiosis, resulting in an increase in "enemy" bacteria. Among other reasons, this can be caused by the following:
- Relaxation of hygiene habits due to more frequent meals away from home. Following the daily oral hygiene routine is essential, brushing teeth with fluoride at least twice a day or after each meal. In cases where brushing cannot be done after eating, sugarless chewing gum with xylitol can be chewed. Remember to use dental floss or an interdental brush once daily to reach the areas the toothbrush cannot reach.
- Change of diet. In summer, we tend to consume more sugary products, including carbonated beverages, as well as more fatty foods and alcohol, which increases the proportion of pathogenic bacteria.
To prevent possible oral problems in summer, it is advisable to maintain a hygiene routine with brushing and fluoride toothpaste and interdental hygiene. Similarly, sugars and carbonated beverages should be avoided outside the home. It is also important to constantly hydrate, drink plenty of fluids (preferably water) and avoid alcohol consumption. Visiting the dentist and not waiting until after the summer is also recommended.