MAKE A SPLASH!
Stand-Up Paddleboarding This sport originated among Hawaiian surfers and began gaining momentum nationwide about a decade ago. Participants stand upright on a flat, buoyant board and propel themselves over lakes, rivers, and oceans with a single paddle. Paddleboards are bigger than surfboards and are stable enough to hold a picnic in a waterproof bag! Snorkeling Snorkeling is a great family activity for all ages if you're vacationing near an ocean. Flippers, watertight goggles, and snorkels are easy to rent or buy. Exploring the wonders beneath the waves is as easy as floating on the surface and paddling your flippers. While any clear ocean waters can be fun to explore, consider trekking to Hawaii or Cozumel to see spectacular schools of fish and rock formations.
conversation than paddling a canoe or kayak. These watercraft are usually available to rent near lakes and rivers, and, barring rough weather, navigating with them is relatively safe and easy. Pack a picnic, explore, and see what you can find along a river or lakeshore. Waterskiing While this sport requires access to a speedboat and a skilled operator, arranging to try it can offer unforgettable thrills. Nothing can compare to the exhilaration as you first rise above the waves and stand on your skis; participants also get a full-body workout! Waterskiing poses a challenge for beginners when crossing the wake and keeping their legs beneath them, but the rewards are worth the effort! This summer, consider vacationing near a body of water to explore these aquatic activities or others, such as sailing or bodyboarding.You will create lasting memories and may ignite passions your kids will enjoy for years!
WATER FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Few outdoor activities are more fun to do as a family than beating the heat in the water. A facility as simple as a community pool can offer fun for all ages, including wading, diving, and lap swimming. As summer gets underway, consider making plans to try more complex aquatic sports as a family. Here are four exciting options that will inspire the whole family to take the plunge.
Canoeing and Kayaking Few aquatic activities offer more opportunities for reflection and quiet
A WORD FROM ASHLEE How Food Impacts Your Dental Health
Hydration is key. Water plays a powerful role in dental health. Staying hydrated keeps your mouth from drying out and helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
Did you know that what you eat plays a bigger role in your dental health than you might realize?Your diet can be just as important as your daily brushing routine to keep your teeth strong and your gums healthy. Let’s take a look.
Sugar is a large culprit. When you eat sugary foods or sip on sweet drinks, the bacteria in your mouth thrive on the sugar and produce acid as a byproduct, which wears down your enamel (the hard outer shell of your teeth), which can lead to cavities. And it’s not just candy — soda, fruit juice, sports drinks, and even some granola bars can be surprisingly damaging.
Timing matters. It’s not just what you eat but when
you eat that matters. Snacking throughout the day, especially if the food is sugary or starchy, gives harmful bacteria more chances to produce acid. Avoid snacking between meals, and rinse your mouth with water if brushing isn’t possible. A healthy smile starts with smarter choices. A balanced diet doesn’t just benefit your overall health — it supports your smile, too. Making thoughtful food choices and sticking to a solid oral hygiene routine will best protect your smile.
Foods can support dental health. Thankfully, not all foods work against your teeth. Some help protect and strengthen them! Foods high in calcium — like milk, cheese, and yogurt — reinforce enamel and bone strength. Crunchy fruits and veggies such as carrots, celery, and apples help scrub away plaque and increase saliva production, which is your mouth’s built-in defense system. Vitamin C-rich foods like oranges and bell peppers help maintain healthy gums, while phosphorus-rich foods — like eggs, meat, and fish — contribute to enamel repair and strength.
So, next time you grab a snack, ask yourself: Is this helping or hurting my smile?Your future self will thank you!
–Ashlee Registered Dental Hygienist
2 | Elkins Dental
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