Can the Summer Sun Benefit Your Smile?

Summer sunshine is the activating ingredient for your body to produce different vitamins and nutrients that are crucial to your physical and mental wellbeing. But, did you know that it also offers a wide variety of advantages for your smile, too? By sunbathing (while making sure to protect your skin and lips, of course), you can benefit your whole body! Read on to learn how catching rays is a healthy and fun way to make the most out of this season.

Summer Sunshine, Your Smile, & Vitamin D

The sun is responsible for helping summer squash grow, keeping you warm, providing a renewable energy source, and even giving you the mental boost you need all year-round. In the same way that summer rays support all of these natural endeavors, they’re also essential for our bodies and improving your oral health:

• Calcium helps your bones and teeth grow strong, but without vitamin D, your body wouldn’t be able to get the most out of it. Vitamin D helps your body process and absorb calcium so you can enjoy all of the benefits it has to offer.
• Several studies have shown that vitamin D can also prevent tooth decay due to the reasons listed above. Some have shown that it can lower the risk of cavities by up to 50 percent.
• Vitamin D is also important for your immune system to help it fight off infections and bad bacteria, like those that cause gum disease!

While the best way to absorb vitamin D is spending between five and 30 minutes in the sun each day, you can also take vitamins orally. Be mindful of knowing your limits, and always stay hydrated and protected while you’re outside during the summer.

Seasonal, Light Foods to Improve Oral Health

Another way to maximize your body’s intake of vitamin D (especially during those rainy days where the sun isn’t out), is through your diet. Here are some foods that are great sources of vitamin D:

• Salmon, tuna, and other fatty fish
• Eggs
• Milk
• Cereal, orange juice, and yogurt

You can make the most out of the summer and benefit your overall and oral health by soaking up the sun. Whether it’s at a beach, on a bike ride across town, or taking your dog on a walk, getting outside is great for your body and mind. If you have any questions about diet, vitamin usage, or anything else, don’t hesitate to speak with your primary care physician or dentist for tips and advice.

About the Practice

At Sunny Dental, we want our patients to get the most out of their daily life by keeping their smiles healthy and confidence-boosting. That’s why we focus on providing high-quality, thorough preventive dental care that stops small oral problems from developing into more serious ones. For questions or to schedule your summer checkup and cleaning, visit our website or call 469-765-8050.