Catching Rays & Gleaming Grins: Is the Summer Sun Good for Your Smile?

Since June is only a few weeks away, you’ll likely be out in the sun soon. Catching rays these next three months should give you an excellent tan. Still, it isn’t just your skin that benefits from sunshine; the summer sun is also good for your smile. You’d do well to get outside from June to August to keep your oral health strong. For more details, read over this helpful summary from your Homer Glen dentist.

The Sun is a Source of Vitamin D

Of course, it isn’t the sun itself that helps your smile thrive. It’s the vitamin D your body produces in response to sunlight, as this substance enhances oral health in several ways.

One example is how vitamin D protects the layers of your teeth. When you get enough of it, your body can better absorb calcium that strengthens your enamel. That means vitamin D can greatly reduce your risk of cavities and similar forms of tooth decay. Plus, it can even repair your dentin – the layer beneath your enamel – well enough to reduce tooth sensitivity.

Another oral perk to vitamin D is that it supports your immune system. To be specific, it regulates your immune response to the point that you’re well-protected from germs, viruses, and so on. This effect greatly reduces your odds of getting gum disease – a major oral infection.

Staying Safe in the Summer Sun

Even as the sun can help your smile, it does carry risks. Overexposure to its rays can lead to sunburns, heat stroke, and even certain types of cancer. Therefore, you should take proper safety measures when you’re getting sunlight.

To keep safe in the summer sun, please do the following:

• Apply Sunscreen: Apply plenty of high-SPF sunscreen before you head out. Make sure to put it on your lips, too; a good balm will protect them from sun damage.
• Drink Water: When you drink enough water, you’ll keep summer heat from dehydrating you. All that water also prevents dry mouth, which increases one’s risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Treat Sunburns: Please care for your skin properly if you end up with a sunburn. For instance, apply aloe vera to soothe it and aid in its healing process. Another idea is to shower with cool water, thus easing your skin irritation.

The summer sun is good for your smile, so don’t just absorb its light for a tan. Catch some rays to make your grin great as well!

About the Practice

DeAngelo Dental of Homer Glen is based in Homer Glen, IL. Led by Dr. Alan R. Angelo himself, our practice always aims to provide effective, comfortable, and friendly dentistry. We thus offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative procedures tailored to your smile, all while using cutting-edge technology. Needless to say, our team will do everything possible to help your grin thrive! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (708)-854-5912.