Americans love the ocean. It is said, perhaps humorously, that half of the U.S. population lives in coastal communities and the other half comes to visit. Possibly, as President John F. Kennedy once expressed, “It is the salt in our veins.” But here’s the thing. Salt has some impacts on coastal living dental care.
Why Americans Love the Ocean
American artist Robert Wyland said, “The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination, and brings eternal joy to the soul.” For many people, the ocean is a remedy for relieving tension, stress, and anxiety. There is science to these feelings. Marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols says that “We are beginning to learn that our brains are hardwired to react positively to water and that being near it can calm and connect us, increase innovation and insight, and even heal what is broken.” But there are salt air teeth effects, and that’s a good reason to secure professional coastal living dental care.
Why People Live in South Carolina
There are many reasons why South Carolina is so popular for residents and visitors. Among them are many opportunities for recreation, from the Blue Ridge Mountains in the west to the stunning beaches of the Atlantic. There is a high quality of life in South Carolina, with great economic opportunities, natural beauty, and cultural richness, including relaxation on the beaches. Good coastal living dental care can preserve precious dental health to enjoy these great benefits of South Carolina.
How Coastal Living Impacts Your Oral Health
The coastal climate can have these significant effects on your dental health:
- Bacteria growth. Warm, moist environments provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, including the kind that cause tooth decay and gum disease. That can lead to increased cases of gingivitis and plaque build-up due to prolonged bacterial exposure.
- Mouth acidity. Moist air can lead to increased acidity in the mouth, especially if hydration levels are lowered. Acidity erodes enamel and increases the risk of cavities over time.
- Salt air and enamel erosion. Consistent exposure to salty air can lead to dry mouth which reduces saliva flow. Saliva is the mouth’s first line of defense to wash away food particles and neutralize acids. When saliva flow is reduced, your enamel becomes vulnerable to erosion, damage, and sensitivity.
- Beach sun. UV rays from the sun can harm your lips and the soft tissues of your mouth.
Tips for Good Coastal Living Dental Care
- Manage saltwater exposure. After swimming or body surfing, rinse your mouth with fresh water to remove salt.
- Stay hydrated.
- Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash to strengthen enamel.
- Limit acidic food and drinks.
- Maintain a good dental care routine, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using a fluoride rinse.
- Chew sugarless gum and avoid tobacco products.
- Choose a great Mt. Pleasant, SC dentist and schedule regular dental check-ups to get great coastal living dental care.
Seek Professional Dental Care
Contact Old Mt. Pleasant Dentistry, located right off Ben Sawyer Blvd. In Mt. Pleasant. S.C. for dental care you can trust. We use treatment plans that are practical using the most advanced technology. We offer caring routine dental care and procedures including extractions and root canals. To us, the patient is the most important person in the office.