Spring Break is a time to have fun and relax. However, while you’re off from school and away from your busy schedule, Dr. Greenfield wants to remind you not to take a Spring Break from your dental care. Your vacation activities may change your behaviors and cause you to neglect focus on your oral needs.
Lazy Lounging
You’ve probably been looking forward to sleeping until noon and lying around the house all day. First of all, if you sleep until noon, you won’t be able to brush your teeth in the morning. When you sleep, your saliva production decreases and oral bacteria are not rinsed away. It’s important to brush your teeth in the morning to start your day with a clean mouth. Furthermore, if you lounge on the couch all day, you may be tempted to snack on junk food. Most “junk food” contains high amounts of sugars and carbohydrates that feed the oral bacteria in your mouth. If your behaviors cause your body to become lazy, you may “forget” or just not “feel like” brushing and flossing your teeth every day.
Fun in the Sun
The cool springtime weather may inspire you to step outside and enjoy the sunlight. If you participate in any sports, exercise, swimming, or any other strenuous activity, don’t forget to wear your mouth guard. Additionally, camping and gardening may irritate your sinuses and contribute to tooth pain. If you’re taking a vacation to the ski lift or the beach, don’t let the sun and breezy air dry out your lips.
A Day at the Dentist
If it’s time for your dental cleaning or if you need dental treatments, now is a great time to schedule them! Children miss about 51 million hours of school each year, and adults miss about 164 million hours of work each year due to dental problems and treatments. Take advantage of the time when you’re already off and visit Dr. Greenfield.
Taking just a week off from proper dental care can lead to long-term dental problems. No matter how much fun you’re having, you still need to pay attention to your daily oral behaviors. Dr. Greenfield can help protect your smile before, during, and after Spring Break. Contact Lake Orion Family Dentistry in Lake Orion, Michigan, at (248) 693-6213 to schedule an appointment. We welcome patients from Lake Orion, Oxford, Rochester Hills, Clarkston, and the surrounding communities.
