Huntington Beach isn’t called Surf City, USA for nothing. When the waves are pumping and the summer crowds arrive, locals and visitors alike flock to the pier and the breaks that make this coastline legendary. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just learning to paddle out, your teeth face unique challenges during surf season.
Here’s how to keep your smile as bright as the California sun while you chase those perfect sets.
Why Surf Season Puts Teeth at Risk
The ocean is exhilarating—but it can also be tough on your oral health:
- Board impacts: Wipeouts or an unexpected rebound from your board can lead to chipped or fractured teeth.
- Saltwater exposure: Saltwater itself isn’t harmful in moderation, but frequent exposure can dry out your mouth, reducing the natural saliva that protects teeth from decay.
- Sports drinks & snacks: Long surf sessions often mean refueling with sugary drinks or high-acid snacks that erode enamel.
- UV exposure: Your lips and gums are also vulnerable to the sun’s rays, which can increase the risk of dryness and even oral cancer if unprotected.
1. Wear a Custom-Fitted Mouthguard
One of the simplest ways to avoid chipped or broken teeth is a surf-specific mouthguard:
- Custom fit: Your Huntington Beach dentist can create a guard that fits comfortably, stays in place, and won’t interfere with breathing or speaking.
- Impact protection: A mouthguard absorbs the shock from accidental collisions with your board or other surfers.
- Durability: Custom guards last longer than over-the-counter versions and can be tailored for frequent saltwater use.
2. Hydrate and Rinse After Sessions
Saltwater combined with hours in the sun can lead to dry mouth, which reduces the natural protective effects of saliva.
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after surfing.
- Rinse with fresh water as soon as you leave the ocean to remove salt and sand.
- Consider a fluoride mouth rinse at home to strengthen enamel.
3. Protect Your Lips and Gums from UV Rays
Just like your skin, your lips and gums can suffer from sunburn and long-term UV damage.
- Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher and reapply regularly, especially after wiping out.
- Wear a wide-brimmed surf hat or use a zinc-based sunscreen for extra protection.
- During your regular dental checkups, ask your dentist to perform an oral cancer screening.
4. Choose Surf Snacks and Drinks Wisely
Post-surf hunger is real, but the typical quick fixes—sports drinks, energy bars, or sodas—are often loaded with sugar and acids.
- Opt for water or coconut water instead of sugary sports drinks.
- Pack tooth-friendly snacks like bananas, nuts, string cheese, or whole-grain wraps.
- If you indulge in something sweet, rinse with water soon after to help neutralize acids.
5. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Routine exams and professional cleanings are key to catching any issues early, especially if you’re frequently in the water.
- Your dentist can check for early signs of enamel erosion, small chips, or gum irritation.
- Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing may miss.
- Regular visits also give you the opportunity to discuss protective options like custom mouthguards or fluoride treatments.
6. Consider Cosmetic or Restorative Options if Damage Occurs
Even with the best precautions, surf mishaps happen. If you chip or crack a tooth:
- Bonding: Minor chips can often be repaired quickly and invisibly with tooth-colored resin.
- Porcelain veneers or crowns: For larger damage or long-term protection, these restorations restore both function and appearance.
- Dental implants: In rare cases of tooth loss, implants provide a permanent, natural-looking solution.
Your Huntington Beach dentist can recommend the best treatment based on the severity of the damage.
Surf City Lifestyle: Balancing Fun and Oral Health
Surfing is part of the Huntington Beach identity. Protecting your teeth ensures you can keep smiling—whether you’re dropping into overhead waves or relaxing on the pier at sunset. By taking simple precautions like wearing a custom mouthguard, staying hydrated, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can enjoy the surf season without compromising your oral health.
Keep Your Smile as Bright as the Pacific
At Beachside Dental Group, we’re passionate about helping our community enjoy everything Huntington Beach has to offer—without sacrificing dental health. Whether you need a custom mouthguard, a routine cleaning, or treatment for a surf-related dental injury, our team is here to keep your smile strong and photo-ready.
Call (714) 842-6151 or request an appointment online to schedule your next visit.
With the right care, you can ride every wave knowing your teeth—and your smile—are protected.