401 Attain St. Suite 131 Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

Summer Survival Guide: Eight Tips To Keep Your Mouth Fresh And Clean

Posted on January 27th, 2026

Fuquay-Varina dentist, Dr. McCormick at Fuquay Family Dentistry, shares the top 8 tips for maintaining a great smile while still enjoying your summer months.Summer is often filled with fun in the sun, outdoor activities, and delicious food. However, it’s also a time to be extra vigilant about your dental health. Whether you are an adult or a child, maintaining your oral health is essential. Here are reasons why to be extra cautious about your oral health in summer:

  • In the summer, people tend to be more active, eat a variety of foods, and have different oral hygiene habits than they do at any other time of the year. 
  • The heat and humidity can cause an increase in bacterial growth in the mouth, leading to tooth decay, bad breath, and other oral health issues if proper oral care is not maintained.
  • Summer activities such as swimming and sports can increase the risk of dental injuries. 

Therefore, it is important to be cautious, maintain good oral hygiene, and protect the teeth and gums from potential damage during the summer months. Here are the top eight tips to keep your mouth fresh and clean in summertime:

  1. Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay. Be sure to use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your teeth and keep your mouth fresh and clean.
  2. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and maintain good oral health. Drinking water will also help neutralize the acid that can damage tooth enamel. 
  3. Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks such as soda, lemonade, and candy. Yes, summer is a time for indulging in sweet treats and refreshing drinks, but too much sugar and acid can be bad for your teeth. However, if you do indulge, be sure to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water afterward.
  4. Wear a mouthguard, especially if you’re planning on participating in sports or other physical activities. A mouthguard is a simple and effective way to protect your teeth from injury and prevent dental emergencies and costly repairs.
  5. Use sunscreen on your lips to protect them from sunburn.
  6. Visit your dentist. Regular check-ups and cleanings are important for maintaining good oral health all year round. Dr. McCormick is looking forward to your next appointment with him/her to make sure your smile is healthy and beautiful this summer.
  7. Consider using a water flosser to help remove plaque and food particles from hard-to-reach areas. It’s especially useful for people who have braces or other orthodontic devices.
  8. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as this can damage your gums and teeth. If you’re planning on drinking alcohol this summer, be sure to drink in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward.

In conclusion, with the above-mentioned tips, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong all summer long. But most importantly, schedule your appointment with Fuquay Family Dentistry to make sure you are on the right track to keeping your smile strong, healthy, and beautiful.

Contact Fuquay Family Dentistry today to schedule an appointment!

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

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401 Attain St. Suite 131
Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526
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