Sun, Sand and Sensitivity: How Family Dental Care Protects Your Teeth

Family dental care Red Deer tips for safe smiles—wherever summer takes you 

Summer vacation is all about letting loose, but that doesn’t mean your oral hygiene should take a break, too. Whether you’re heading to the mountains, hopping a flight or soaking up the sun at Sylvan Lake, it’s important to keep your smile safe while you’re away. At Clearview Market Dental, we believe family dental care in Red Deer doesn’t stop at our clinic doors—it goes wherever you go. 

From increased sugar intake to forgotten toothbrushes, the summer season presents some sneaky risks to your oral health. But don’t worry—we’re here to help you travel smart with simple strategies that protect your teeth without interrupting your fun. 

Travel tooth kits: Don’t leave home without them 

First things first—make a dental hygiene travel kit part of your packing routine. A small zippered pouch should include a toothbrush, floss, travel-sized toothpaste, and sugar-free gum. If you wear aligners or a night guard, be sure to include your storage case and a cleansing solution. 

Families travelling with young kids should bring age-appropriate supplies. This makes brushing on the go much easier and keeps children in a consistent routine—an important part of long-term oral health. You can also encourage good habits with a fun new toothbrush or flavoured floss. 

If you’ve been prescribed a special rinse or paste by your dentist, don’t forget it! With TSA-friendly options available, there’s no excuse to leave oral care behind. 

Tooth sensitivity and summer treats 

A cold drink on a hot day sounds refreshing—unless it sends a sharp zing through your teeth. Summer favourites like popsicles, iced cocktails and frozen fruit can aggravate sensitivity and expose underlying enamel issues. 

To manage discomfort, avoid biting into icy items and drink acidic beverages like lemonade through a straw. If you’ve noticed more sensitivity lately, a quick checkup with our Red Deer dental team can catch early-stage enamel erosion or gum recession. Treatment options, including professional fluoride and desensitising toothpaste, can make a world of difference before your next getaway. 

Swimming and oral care 

Did you know chlorinated pools can affect your teeth? Spending hours in heavily treated water may lead to enamel discolouration or sensitivity, particularly in competitive swimmers. Rinsing your mouth after a swim and brushing soon after can help prevent long-term issues. 

Also be aware of the snacks and drinks often consumed poolside—sports drinks, gummy candies and sodas are high in sugar and acid. Stick to water and teeth-friendly snacks like cheese, nuts and crunchy vegetables when possible. 

Emergencies abroad: Know your options 

Even with the best preparation, dental emergencies can happen. A cracked tooth, lost filling or sudden ache can turn a dream vacation into a stressful one. Before you leave, write down our clinic’s contact info in case you need advice while away. In serious cases, we may recommend finding a local emergency dentist until you can return to Red Deer. 

If you experience severe anxiety about dental work and are putting off treatment before a trip, our sedation dentistry services can help make care more comfortable. Getting ahead of problems before you travel is always the best route. 

Oral health is a year-round investment 

Your smile deserves as much care on vacation as it does at home. Remember that consistent brushing and flossing helps prevent decay and gum disease. 

Families who make oral care part of their daily rhythm are more likely to raise children with lifelong healthy habits. So, whether you’re packing for a long-haul flight or just heading out to camp, bring your toothbrush, keep up your routine and schedule regular visits with our family dental team in Red Deer. 

We’ll keep your smile bright—no matter where the road takes you.