Sugary and acidic drinks can damage teeth.
Dr. Asel Üsdat Öztürk, Assistant Professor, stated that ice cream, cold coffee, and carbonated and sugary drinks, which are consumed more frequently in the summer months to cool down, can negatively affect oral and dental health. She said, “Foods containing sugar, in particular, are converted into acid by bacteria in the mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Carbonated and acidic drinks can cause erosion of tooth enamel. Very cold foods and drinks can also cause short-term pain in sensitive teeth. Rinsing the mouth with water or drinking at least a glass of water after consuming sugary or acidic drinks helps protect teeth.”
Sensitivity to Cold Should Not Be Ignored
Emphasizing that cold sensitivity should not be considered merely a temporary problem, Dr. Öztürk stated, “Prolonged pain after exposure to cold may be a sign of deep cavities. However, sensitivity felt only during cold stimuli and subsiding quickly may suggest superficial cavities, enamel erosion, or root surface sensitivity due to gum recession. A definitive diagnosis can be made through clinical and radiographic evaluation. Untreated dental problems in the early stages may necessitate more extensive treatments.”
Do not brush your teeth immediately after drinking acidic beverages.
Dr. Öztürk, Assistant Professor, stated that acidic drinks temporarily soften tooth enamel, adding, “Brushing your teeth immediately afterward can increase enamel erosion. First, rinse your mouth with water, and wait about 30 minutes before brushing. Also, instead of consuming these drinks slowly throughout the day, drinking them all at once and using a straw if possible will reduce the amount of time your teeth are exposed to acid.”
Oral hygiene routines should not be neglected during vacation.
Dr. Asel Üsdat Öztürk, Assistant Professor, stated that regular oral care should be maintained even during vacation periods, saying, “Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, using dental floss once a day, and drinking enough water are of great importance in protecting oral health. It is essential to have a toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss with you when traveling.”
Healthy nutrition and regular care are important for children.
Dr. Öztürk, Assistant Professor, stated that attention should be paid to the increased consumption of sugary foods by children during the summer holidays, saying, "Instead of ice creams containing sugar and heavy food coloring, homemade alternatives prepared with natural ingredients such as fruit and yogurt should be preferred. Instilling regular oral hygiene habits in children from a young age and parents monitoring the brushing process play an important role in protecting oral and dental health."
To Protect Your Oral and Dental Health Throughout the Summer
Dr. Asel Üsdat Öztürk, Assistant Professor, offered the following recommendations for protecting oral and dental health during the summer months:
- Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day.
- Use dental floss or interdental brushes once a day.
- Limit your consumption of sugary and acidic drinks.
- When you're thirsty, your first choice should be water.
- Wait at least 30 minutes after drinking acidic beverages before brushing your teeth.
- Instead of spreading sugary snacks throughout the day, consume them with meals.
- If you experience symptoms such as tooth sensitivity, persistent pain, or bleeding gums, consult your dentist immediately.
- Don't neglect your oral care routine even during the holidays.
