How your oral and mental health are connected
Smiles and serenity:
Summer activities for a healthier mind and mouth
Summer is the perfect time to embrace activities that support both mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re working on a DIY project, exercising, or simply soaking up the sun, the summer months offer plenty of opportunities to nurture your oral health, vision health, and mental wellness.
Your oral health, vision health, and mental well-being are more intertwined than you might think. Too much stress can cause:
Teeth grinding, which wears down your tooth enamel and can cause jaw pain and headaches.
Dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath and increase your risk for cavities and gum disease.
A reduced immune response, which contributes to gum inflammation.
Shed your stress in the sunshine
Now for the fun part — maintaining (or improving) your oral and mental health with summer activities that promote relaxation and self-care! When you feel your stress level start to rise, find serenity with an outdoor experience:
Yoga in the park: Practicing yoga outdoors helps reduce stress, improve posture, and promote relaxation. Deep breathing also increases saliva production, which helps protect teeth from decay.
Scenic hiking: Walking in nature boosts your mood and lowers stress. Just make sure you stay hydrated to keep your mouth clean and prevent dry mouth.
Swimming: A refreshing swim can ease tension and provide a full-body workout. Just be mindful of chlorine exposure — see our article here to learn more.
Gardening: Time in a garden promotes mindfulness and reduces anxiety. Plus, you can grow fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs that benefit your teeth and gums.
Cycling: A leisurely or active bike ride is a great way to stay active while enjoying the outdoors. Just be sure to protect your skin, lips, and eyes — our article here has more details about shielding yourself from too much sun.
Want a smile-friendly garden? Carrots have vitamin A for healthy teeth (and eyes), spinach is packed with calcium for strong teeth and bones, and bell peppers offer vitamin C for gum health.
De-stress your summer
Summer is a time for relaxation, adventure, and self-care. By choosing activities that support oral health and mental well-being, you can keep your smile healthy and your mind at ease.
