Five Back-to-School Tips for Healthy Teeth

It’s back-to-school time! You’re undoubtedly rushing around getting school clothes, backpacks, the required art and classroom supplies, and arranging school activities and packed schedules. In the rush of all things school-related, remember that your child’s dental health must be protected even when rushing around if you don’t want to have to pencil in an appointment to treat a cavity or oral infection.

Here are a few tips and habits to instill in your kids – and the whole family – to ensure healthy teeth as they start the new school year:

1.   It’s an excellent time for new oral care supplies.

If you can’t remember the last time your child had a new toothbrush, now is the time. Let them pick out an ADA-approved, soft-bristle toothbrush in a fun color that fits their hand comfortably. Also, choose a good dental floss. Today’s flosses come in a variety of flavors kids love.

2.   Take your kids grocery shopping for healthy lunches and snacks.

Packing nutritious lunches means choosing meals and snacks that are healthy and good for your teeth. For crunch, opt for raw carrots and celery instead of chips. Hummus, yogurt, lean meats, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and cheeses are nutritious and good for developing teeth. Bottled water or a thermos filled with water is best for staying hydrated and reducing sugar intake.

3.   Add brushing to their after-school routine.

Brushing their teeth when they wake up and before bedtime may be acceptable, but brushing them after school is an excellent habit for young children and teens. Why? Because kids eat lunch at school and tend to share snacks and sweets with their friends. Kids don’t think about rinsing after eating and are preoccupied with their classes and activities at school. Brushing their teeth when they get home removes potentially damaging sugars and acids. It establishes a healthy habit for the future.

4.   Schedule a checkup with our office.

You still have time to schedule your child’s dental checkup and teeth cleaning at our office. Starting the school year with clean, sparkling teeth is a great way to encourage your child to continue caring for their teeth. If there are any cavities or gum issues, we can take care of them before school hours, which makes scheduling an appointment difficult.

If your child is prone to cavities, we may also suggest preventive measures such as dental sealants. These sealants are painted onto the chewing surfaces of the teeth to fill in crevices where debris and bacteria gather and are difficult to remove, even with brushing.

5.   Get a custom mouthguard for sports.

Children participating in sports often suffer dental injuries such as cracked or broken teeth. A mouthguard protects the teeth and prevents them from cutting the lips and cheeks. While a store-bought mouth guard provides some protection, it won’t fit securely and is bulky and uncomfortable. Investing in a custom-designed mouthguard ensures your child’s teeth and gums will be protected from blows to the face, falls, and other potential damage that could otherwise cause costly and painful damage to the teeth.

Your kids are looking forward to a new school year and seeing their friends again. While they focus on school supplies and activities, you can start now to set them up for better dental health through healthy habits.