## Denver's Dew: Altitude Air Stealing Summer Gums?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe crisp mountain air, the endless blue skies, the promise of adventure – Denver in the summer is intoxicating. But for those of us who call the Mile High City home, there’s a hidden summer hazard lurking: our gums. It’s a silent thief, exacerbated by the altitude and the dry summer heat, and it’s stealing the health of our mouths.
Denver’s unique environment presents a perfect storm for gum problems. The high altitude means less oxygen, and that reduced air density can lead to dehydration. This, coupled with the dry summer air, creates a situation where our mouths become parched, and our gums suffer.
The problem? Saliva. It’s our mouth’s natural defense, washing away bacteria and neutralizing acids. When we’re dehydrated, saliva production decreases, leaving our gums vulnerable to inflammation and recession. This is especially true for those who are active outdoors, hiking, biking, or just enjoying the sunshine.
Think of it this way: your gums are like a delicate garden. They need constant hydration and care to thrive. Denver’s altitude and summer heat are like a relentless sun, sucking the moisture out of the soil. Without proper intervention, the garden withers.
So, what can Denver residents do to combat this “altitude air stealing summer gums” phenomenon? It’s a multi-pronged approach, focusing on hydration, specialized oral care, and mindful exercise.
First, hydration is key. And I’m not just talking about sipping water when you feel thirsty. You need to be proactive about hydration. Carry a water bottle with you everywhere, and set reminders on your phone to drink throughout the day. Aim for at least a gallon of water daily, especially during the summer months.
But water alone isn’t enough. Consider adding electrolytes to your water, especially if you’re exercising. Electrolytes help your body retain water, preventing dehydration. Look for electrolyte tablets or powders that are low in sugar.
Next, specialized oral care products can make a significant difference. Regular toothpaste and mouthwash are good, but they may not be enough to combat the dryness and inflammation caused by Denver’s climate.
Consider using a toothpaste specifically designed for dry mouth. These toothpastes contain ingredients like xylitol and fluoride, which help stimulate saliva production and protect against cavities. Biotene is a popular brand, but there are other options available.
Also, invest in a good quality mouthwash that is alcohol-free. Alcohol-based mouthwashes can further dry out your mouth, exacerbating the problem. Look for mouthwashes that contain fluoride and xylitol.
Another often overlooked tool is a tongue scraper. Bacteria love to accumulate on the tongue, contributing to bad breath and gum inflammation. Using a tongue scraper daily can help remove this bacteria and improve your overall oral health.
Finally, adjust your exercise routine. Denver is an active city, and many residents enjoy outdoor activities. However, it’s important to be mindful of how exercise affects your gums.
During exercise, we tend to breathe through our mouths, which further dries out our gums. Try to focus on breathing through your nose as much as possible. This helps humidify the air before it reaches your lungs, reducing dehydration.
Also, avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day. Early morning or late evening are better options. And be sure to hydrate before, during, and after exercise.
A common mistake is thinking that sports drinks are a good way to hydrate during exercise. While they do contain electrolytes, they are often high in sugar, which can actually harm your teeth and gums. Stick to water with electrolytes, or consider making your own sports drink with a low-sugar recipe.
To get a deeper understanding of this issue, I spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, a periodontist at Denver Periodontal Specialists. “We see a lot of patients in Denver with gum recession and inflammation, and the altitude definitely plays a role,” she explained. “The dry air and reduced oxygen levels can make it harder for the gums to heal and fight off infection.”
Dr. Carter recommends that her patients in Denver pay extra attention to their oral hygiene and stay well-hydrated. She also suggests using a humidifier at night to combat the dry air.
Another expert, Dr. Michael Lee, a dentist at Mile High Smiles, emphasized the importance of regular dental checkups. “It’s crucial to catch gum problems early,” he said. “Regular cleanings and exams can help prevent gum disease from progressing.”
Dr. Lee also pointed out that certain medications can contribute to dry mouth. If you’re taking any medications, talk to your doctor or dentist about potential side effects and how to manage them.
One specific challenge that Denver residents face is the temptation to over-exercise. The beautiful scenery and abundance of outdoor activities can make it easy to push yourself too hard. However, it’s important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion, which can lead to dehydration and gum problems.
A case study: Sarah, a 35-year-old Denver resident, is an avid runner. She loves running in the mountains, but she noticed that her gums were becoming increasingly sensitive and inflamed. After consulting with her dentist, she realized that she wasn’t hydrating enough and was breathing through her mouth too much during her runs. She started carrying a water bottle with her on her runs and made a conscious effort to breathe through her nose. She also started using a toothpaste for dry mouth. Within a few weeks, her gums felt much better.
Another pitfall is neglecting your oral hygiene while traveling. When you’re on vacation, it’s easy to fall out of your routine. However, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits, even when you’re away from home. Pack your toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash, and make sure to brush and floss regularly.
In conclusion, protecting your gums in Denver’s challenging climate requires a proactive approach. By staying hydrated, using specialized oral care products, adjusting your exercise routine, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can combat the “altitude air stealing summer gums” phenomenon and keep your smile healthy and bright. Don’t let the Mile High City steal your smile. Take control of your oral health and enjoy all that Denver has to offer, with confidence.