Summer is here, and whether your family is heading to the baseball diamond, the soccer field, the pool, or the great outdoors, now is the perfect time to think about protecting those teeth. At Greenspoint Dental, we want you and your loved ones to enjoy every sunny day without worrying about dental injuries. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your smile safe during summer sports and activities.
Why Summer Puts Your Teeth at Risk
Summer activities bring excitement and outdoor fun — but they also come with increased risk of dental injuries. From contact sports like baseball and basketball to non-contact activities like biking and skateboarding, teeth can be chipped, cracked, or even knocked out in a split second. Studies show that athletes are 60% more likely to suffer a dental injury than non-athletes, and most of these injuries are completely preventable.
Beyond impact injuries, summer activities also increase exposure to sugary drinks, ice cream, and snacks that can contribute to tooth decay and cavities. The heat, chlorine from swimming pools, and dehydration can also affect your oral health. Understanding these risks is the first step in protecting your smile.
The Importance of Mouthguards
The most effective way to prevent dental injuries during sports is wearing a properly fitting mouthguard. A quality mouthguard can reduce the risk of tooth injury by up to 99%, yet fewer than half of young athletes wear one during contact sports.
Types of mouthguards:
- Stock mouthguards: Available at sporting goods stores, these are the most affordable option but offer the least protection and comfort.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards: These soften in hot water and can be molded to your teeth, offering better protection than stock options.
- Custom mouthguards: Made by your dentist from dental impressions, these offer the best fit, comfort, and protection — and your Greenspoint Dental team can create one during a quick visit.
A custom mouthguard from Greenspoint Dental ensures your child’s mouthguard stays in place during play, doesn’t interfere with breathing, and provides maximum protection. It’s an investment in your smile that truly pays dividends, ¡Sonríe!
What to Do If a Tooth Gets Knocked Out
Even with protection, accidents happen. If a tooth is knocked out during sports:
- Stay calm and find the tooth.
- Rinse it gently with water — do NOT scrub it.
- Try to reinsert it into the socket, if possible, or keep it in your mouth (against your cheek) to keep it moist.
- If you can’t reinsert it, place the tooth in a glass of milk or saliva — this keeps the root alive.
- Get to a dentist immediately — ideally within 30 minutes. Call our emergency team right away at (281) 823-9987.
A tooth that’s reinserted quickly has a much higher chance of surviving long-term. Our emergency care team is ready to help you get back to your smile.
Beyond Sports: Summer Dietary Habits
Summer also means popsicles, lemonade, ice cream, and constant snacking — many of which are high in sugar and acid. These treats can weaken tooth enamel and increase cavity risk, especially in kids.
Tips for protecting teeth during summer treats:
- Rinse your mouth with water after eating sugary snacks or drinking sugary beverages.
- Use a straw when drinking acidic drinks like lemonade or sports drinks to minimize contact with teeth.
- Avoid sipping drinks over long periods — constant exposure to sugar and acid is worse than finishing a drink quickly.
- Wait 30 minutes before brushing after consuming acidic foods or drinks, as brushing too soon can damage softened enamel.
- Pack sugar-free gum for after meals — chewing gum stimulates saliva, which naturally protects teeth.
- Stay hydrated with water, which naturally cleanses your mouth.
Remember, moderation is key. Your kids can absolutely enjoy summer treats — just be mindful and follow up with good oral hygiene.
Pre-Summer Dental Checkup: A Smart Move
Before summer activities ramp up, bring your family in for a checkup and professional cleaning. A pre-season dental visit allows us to:
- Identify any existing cavities or weak spots that could become problems.
- Polish away plaque and tartar buildup.
- Fit your kids (or yourself!) with custom mouthguards if needed.
- Answer questions about summer sports safety.
- Make sure everyone’s smile is in peak condition for the season ahead.
Plus, we can discuss financing options if you need multiple treatments — our flexible payment plans make quality dental care affordable for the whole family. Se habla español, and we’re here to help.
Make Summer Smile Safety a Family Priority
Summer is about making memories, laughing with friends and family, and enjoying the season to the fullest. Protecting your teeth should be part of that plan, not an afterthought.
Whether you need a custom mouthguard, a pre-summer checkup, or emergency care if something goes wrong, Greenspoint Dental is here for you. We’ve been serving the Greenspoint community with judgment-free, affordable care since 1997, and we’re ready to keep your whole family smiling all summer long.
Ready to protect your smile? Call us at (281) 823-9987 or visit greenspointdental.com to schedule your pre-summer checkup today. New patients can take advantage of our $99 exam, X-rays, and cleaning special. Let’s make this your safest, smile-iest summer yet — No Judgment. No Pressure. Just Smiles. ¡Sonríe!