Back-to-School Tips for a Healthy Smile

by Dr. Nick Wentworth

Summer has flown by again and back-to-school preparations have begun. As you pick-up school supplies and prepare for the busy year ahead, don’t forget about your best accessory – a healthy smile!

Here are some tips to get your year started right:

1. Keep Regular Dental Check-ups on your Schedule

Many schools and extracurricular activities call for your child to have a physical prior to attending or playing. Even though dental check-ups are not on the list of back-to-school requirements, add it to your family’s checklist.. Ask your dentist if they recommend dental sealants for your child or a mouth guard for any of their activities.

2. Stick to a Dental Hygiene Routine

Most people, children and adults included, benefit from sticking to a routine. This goes for your dental regimen as well. In the mornings, make sure your child has enough time to brush their teeth before going to school. Before bed, make sure to both brush and floss as the last step. No more snacks or drinks (besides water) after brushing for the night.

3. Make Brushing and Flossing Fun

Get your kids excited about consistent dental care by adding in some fun. Using a sticker calendar, playing a two-minute song while they brush, and letting them pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste are some fun ideas you can incorporate.

4. Pack Healthy Snacks

Swap out lunchbox no-nos with healthy alternatives! Consider real fruit, veggies and dip, pretzel sticks, nuts or cheese over snacks with sticky coating like fruit rollups or granola bars. These sticky sugars stay on your child’s teeth all day and can cause decay.

5. Encourage Drinking Water

We all know water is great for the body, but it is also great for your teeth. Kids often ask for juice, sports drinks, or treats like soda or chocolate milk. These tend to be full of sugar and which leads to cavities over time. Try to encourage the whole family to drink more water regularly!

These simple tips will help maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent future tears and expenses from cavities or other dental issues. Get your family excited about healthy smiles this school year!