Clarendon Family Dentistry
Brigid B. Mooney, DDS
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Smiles by the Potomac: How Arlington’s Climate Impacts Your Teeth

August 19, 2025
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A smiling woman getting a dental exam

In Arlington, we have beautiful weather. The summers are fantastic, and the winters are mild with little snowfall. Yet, the humid subtropical climate during the warmer months can affect our oral health. Additionally, even moderately cold weather plays a role in dental health.

In this blog, we discuss how our climate affects your teeth and provide tips to keep your smile healthy throughout the year.

  • Summer in Arlington: Stay Hydrated
  • Winter in Arlington: Stay Healthy
  • Spring and Fall: See Your Arlington Dentist

Summer in Arlington: Stay Hydrated

Heat and humidity can lead to dehydration quickly, which can impact all body systems. As for your teeth, dehydration hinders salivary production, leading to a dry mouth and promoting tooth decay.

Water helps neutralize the acids found in plaque, and chewing sugarless gum aids in salivary production. Both promote healthier teeth.

We recommend avoiding soda and juice whenever possible. These acidic and sugary beverages promote tooth decay.

Winter in Arlington: Stay Healthy

Cold and flu season is part of winter. Unfortunately, when your nose is stuffy, you may resort to mouth breathing, which can cause dryness. Additionally, the medications used to treat a stuffy nose and congestion can be acidic.

We encourage you to stay healthy during the colder months by remembering to drink plenty of water and choosing cold medicines that are not syrupy, as they are healthier for your teeth.

Spring and Fall: See Your Arlington DentistA group of friends taking a selfie in a vineyard

These mild months are ideal times to visit your dentist. Your checkup before the hot and cold seasons can help ensure you enter summer and winter with a clean bill of dental health.

Ideally, you should see the dentist every six months for checkups and teeth cleanings.

Contact Us to Schedule Your Next Dental Visit

If you have questions or would like to schedule your next dental appointment, please call us today at  (703) 522-8894 or book online.

Ask us about our flexible payment options.

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