Experts Share the Best Tips for a Sparkling Summer Smile

Prevent Lips from Sunburns

“Use a lip balm with SPF 15 sunscreen to protect your lips when in the sun for longer periods of time. This can help prevent recurrence of cold sores, which commonly occurs when these susceptible tissues are exposed to the hot sun.” Try Image Skin Care’s hydrating Prevention Daily Lip Enhancer SPF 15 ($26).

—Pittsburgh cosmetic dentist Dr. Rob Klaich, DMD

Incorporate an At-Home Treatment

“KöR Whitening can lighten your teeth 3-4 shades, even if your teeth are very dark or stained. The beauty of this bleach is that there are no preservatives, so you are getting the full strength of the treatment with no interference. For this reason, it must be refrigerated to maintain its potency. Additionally, an in-office KöR bleach, which is double the strength, is a great option to brighten your smile in one visit. Also, tooth sensitivity is greatly reduced with these two options of bleach.”

—Boca Raton, FL cosmetic dentist Clive Rosenbusch, DDS

Change Up Your Flavored Floss

“Treat yourself to a new flavored floss. Also, summer months mean more iced drinks. Avoid chewing ice to prevent damage.” Use Burst’s Mint Eucalyptus flavored floss ($14) for a fresher flossing experience both morning and night.

—New York cosmetic dentist Jason Kasarsky, DDS 

Use the 7-Minute Window Rule

“Watch out for the acid damage from sugary beverages. Remember to rinse with water. Follow the 7-Minute Window Tip from my book Dirty Mouth. If you cannot brush, rinse your mouth for seven seconds to remove the dangerous acids away from your teeth and gums.”

—Rockville, MD cosmetic dentist Joseph Kravitz, DMD

Choose Teeth-Whitening Shades

“My best tip for your smile in the summer is to wear a blue-based hue for lipstick instead of any warm or yellow-based colors. Blue based or cooler shades of red and pink make teeth appear brighter, whereas yellow-based corals and reds accent any yellow in your smile.” GXVE’s Original Me matte lipstick in Original Recipe ($26) is a true red shade with a blue undertones that are guaranteed to let your pearly whites shine even brighter.

—Sarasota, FL cosmetic dentist Jenifer C. Back, DMD