As back-to-school sneaks up on us once again, caretakers are busy getting children ready for the next school year. During the fun of shopping and organizing supplies, this is a great time of year to get into healthy habits when it comes to your family’s dental health. Here are a few back-to-school dental tips to help ensure a healthy smile for this school year and many more to come.
Good back-to-school dental health starts with checkups
If it’s been a while since your child has had their regular dental checkup, this is a great time of year to get your family’s next dental cleaning on the calendar. Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar build-up, which helps reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. In addition to the dental cleaning, during your dental appointment we check for any potential problems and offer treatment recommendations. We recommend a cleaning and checkup every six months, so contact our office today if you’re due for a visit.
Reinforce good oral health habits
When you’re getting back into the routine of school, it’s a great time to check in on your family’s daily health habits. Is your child brushing their teeth at least twice a day? Are they flossing at least once every day? As the bedtime and morning routines start to become familiar again, it’s a great time to remind the whole family to brush and floss regularly.
Pack or buy a tooth-friendly lunch
What your child eats for lunch at school can play a big part in their oral health. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like carrots and apples can help stimulate gums and keep teeth clean. If your child enjoys a sugary snack or drink throughout the school day, be sure that they’re drinking plenty of water afterward.
As you knock off the remainder of your back-to-school to-do list, add healthy oral habits as a priority. If you have any questions about your child’s oral health or want to know more about back-to-school dental tips, reach out to our office and schedule a dental appointment today.
