A new school year is almost here. This season of updating wardrobes and school supplies is an excellent opportunity to ensure your kids’ smiles and overall oral health.
Preventive care for your children’s smiles during the summer is an excellent technique for securing their dental health once the new school ramps up. Also, returning to school with a radiant smile can provide an all-important confidence boost!
Here are our top tips for helping kids start the school year with bright, healthy smiles.
Schedule a Back-to-School Dental Checkup
Scheduling a dental appointment before a new school year is the best preventive measure you can take. Professional cleanings also remove plaque and tartar, which is vital in safeguarding teeth and gums against infection and decay. Also, a thorough oral exam allows your dentist to identify potential issues, like misalignment or cavities, and address them before they progress.
Establish a Consistent At-Home Oral Hygiene Routine
A committed and consistent oral hygiene routine is crucial for a healthy smile. The quiet days of summer are a great time to reinforce your kids’ commitment to brushing and flossing at least twice a day and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash. To make this more of an activity than a chore, consider using a fun toothbrush and colorful toothpaste and turning oral hygiene into a fun game. Also, impress your kids with the importance of brushing diligently after meals and snacks, especially those involving sugary snacks or drinks.
Pack Smile-Friendly Lunches
What children eat has a significant impact on their oral health. With this in mind, pack lunches filled with healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, cheese, yogurt, and whole grains. As much as possible, avoid overly sugary snacks and drinks that can increase the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay. Including a water bottle in your children's lunches is a good way to encourage them to drink water throughout the day to wash away food particles and stay hydrated.
Take these simple steps to help ensure healthy and radiant smiles from the first day of school until the next summer vacation!
A Caring and Experienced Children’s Dentist in Bear Lake, MN
If you're looking for a dentist in the Bear Lake area to help everyone in your family enter the new school year with brilliant, healthy smiles, contact Dr. Ellen Swift, DDS, and the excellent White Bear Smiles team to schedule an appointment!