HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!

For many of us, Memorial Day weekend marks the first days of summer – pools open, grills are being used again, and plenty of greasy or sugary foods around! It’s easy to forget and neglect our oral health, so here are a few tips to ensure we keep our mouths healthy and fresh this weekend!

1. Include some healthy options as well!
   If there’s one thing that I love about holiday weekends, it’s the food… and not having to worry about my diet for the day! However, all that munching and snacking is pretty bad for our oral health. We actually help to feed the anaerobic bacteria in our mouths, which can lead to infections and not to mention bad breath! While I can’t expect, nor ask, anyone to forgo all the tasty treats being made this weekend, balancing them out with healthier options actually helps our mouths to remain healthy. Load up half your plate with a green salad. Have a sweet tooth? Bring on the fresh watermelon and pineapple!
2. Keep a bottle of water with you!
   Everyone knows staying hydrated, especially during the summer, is the best thing for your health. Did you know it’ll also keep your mouth fresh and battle bad breath? Dry mouth causes bacteria to build up in our mouths and on our tongue. Drinking water throughout the day will help to wash away all that bacteria. Go ahead and enjoy yourself this weekend, but don’t forget to drink some water too!
3. Sugar-free gum
   Whether you’re out on a boat, camping, or checking out the numerous festivities this weekend, keep a pack of sugar-free gum with you! It’s the next best thing to help keep your mouth feeling fresh. It also helps to break up food pieces that could be lodged between your teeth, and helps to keep bacteria at bay. It might even help to make a new friend or two!
4. Don’t forget your kids too!
   With all this talk about how to help your own oral health, don’t forget your kids’ mouths too! Be sure they’re brushing twice a day, and following our other tips as well.

Hoping you all have a very enjoyable and very safe memorial day weekend!