As the summer months are coming to a close and the kids are heading back to school, it can be difficult to get back into a typical routine. As you are heading to different locations and getting into the swing of school and workdays, it is key to take some extra steps to keep your family’s smiles protected against dental emergencies. Read on to learn some tooth-healthy tips to incorporate.
Keep Up a Good At-Home Dental Hygiene Routine
If your child experiences toothaches from decay or gum disease, they aren’t going to be able to focus well on school and may even need to miss class to undergo dental work. With an excellent at-home dental hygiene routine, you can prevent these issues from arising at all. Your child’s daily routine should include brushing their teeth for two minutes in the morning and before bed. They should also be flossing once a day. If they are older enough (6+), mouthwash is an excellent addition for additional freshness. Just be sure that you supervise them to ensure that they are using it correctly.
Provide Healthy Food Choices
There isn’t usually much harm in sugary treats now and again. However, it’s important that your family’s diet consists of a balanced amount of learn protein, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and carbohydrates. This way, your kids will have all the nutrients they need to grow big and strong and maintain a healthy smile. For an after-school snack, try providing your kids with apple slices or carrot sticks and dip. These high-fiber foods actively help to clean plaque off their teeth as they eat, boosting oral health.
Discourage Bad Habits
Many of us are guilty of using our teeth to bite a hangnail or open stubborn packaging. However, doing so increases the likelihood of chipping or cracking a tooth. If you find that your kids are doing this, remind them that it’s best to ask for help to complete these tasks so the right tool can be used. Chewing on pencils, ice, fingernails, or other hard objects should also be discouraged. Breaking bad habits is challenging, but it is well worth it when dental emergencies can be avoided.
See the Dentist Regularly
It’s important to attend regular dental visits twice a year. This appointment includes a professional dental cleaning, thorough examination, and X-rays. This way, if an issue is present, it can be detected and treated early on so that it doesn’t become serious. If your family isn’t already on track for regular cleanings and checkups, now’s a great time to get back on board.
Just because school is back in session doesn’t mean oral health should be left on the back burner. By using the tips listed above, your family can keep their smiles healthy and happy.
About the Author
Dr. Meghan Thorburn is a skilled pediatric dentist serving patients in the Fort Worth community. She completed dental school and her residency program at UT Houston. Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (682) 327-1133.