As summer winds down and the school year fast approaches, parents and children alike are preparing for the transition back to school. Among the many preparations, ensuring your child’s dental health should be a top priority to help them get off to a great start. A healthy smile boosts their self-confidence while supporting overall well-being including academic performance. Review our comprehensive back-to-school dental checklist to help you ensure your child is ready for the new year!
1-Schedule a Dental Check-Up
Start by scheduling a dental check-up before the school year begins in earnest. Regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining oral health and catching potential issues early on. During the appointment, our pediatric dental team will perform a thorough examination, clean your child’s teeth and address any concerns. This is also an excellent time to ensure your child is up-to-date with preventative fluoride treatments and dental sealants.
2-Stock Up on Dental Supplies
Make sure your child has all the necessary dental supplies for the new school year. This includes a new toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, dental floss and mouthwash as recommended by our dentist. A toothbrush with your child’s favorite character or color can make brushing more fun.
3-Educate on Dental Hygiene
Reinforce the importance of consistent dental hygiene habits. Teach your child to brush their teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each session and floss daily. Demonstrate the proper brushing and flossing techniques to ensure they are cleaning their teeth effectively. Encourage them to rinse their mouth with water after meals and snacks to reduce the risk of cavities.
4-Packing Tooth-Friendly Lunches: What to Include and Avoid
One of the simplest ways to prioritize your child’s dental health is through their diet. Packing tooth-friendly lunches helps protect their teeth from decay and keeps their smile bright. Here is our guide on what to include and avoid in your child’s lunchbox.
- Include: Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots and celery are excellent choices for a tooth-friendly lunch. Their natural crunchiness helps stimulate saliva production, which washes away food particles and bacteria. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals that support healthy teeth and gums. - Include: Dairy Products
Dairy products such as cheese, yogurt and milk are rich in calcium and phosphates, which strengthen tooth enamel. Cheese, in particular, helps balance the pH levels in the mouth and reduces the risk of tooth decay. Opt for low-sugar choices to maximize the dental benefits. - Avoid: Sugary Snacks and Drinks
Sugary snacks and drinks are the primary culprits behind tooth decay. Avoid packing items like candy, cookies, soda and juice boxes. Instead, opt for water, unsweetened beverages, and snacks like nuts, seeds and whole-grain crackers. If your child does consume sugary foods, encourage them to rinse their mouth with water afterward.
5-Establishing a School-Year Dental Routine for Kids
Maintaining a consistent dental routine is essential for your child’s oral health, especially during the school year when schedules can become hectic. Here are some tips for establishing and adhering to their dental routine.
- Morning Routine
Incorporate brushing and flossing into your child’s morning routine. Encourage them to brush their teeth after breakfast to remove any food particles and start the day with a fresh mouth. Use a timer or a fun song to ensure they brush for the recommended two minutes. - Evening Routine
Make brushing and flossing a part of your child’s bedtime routine. Brushing before bed is crucial as it removes plaque and bacteria accumulating throughout the day. Flossing at night helps clean between the teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach.
6-Make Dental Care Fun
Turn dental care into a fun activity by providing colorful toothbrushes, flavored toothpaste and dental-themed storybooks or videos. Create a reward system to motivate your child, such as a sticker chart where they earn a sticker each time they brush and floss.
We Are Here For Your Child’s Dental Health
These essential back-to-school tips can keep your child’s smile healthier throughout the year. They help your child avoid missing school for preventative dental issues while boosting their overall health and well-being. And remember, we are always here to help your child’s smile thrive!