You’re making a list and checking it twice. Except that this time, it’s a list for back-to-school preparations. School supplies, new shoes, lunchboxes, carpool, schedules, but as the great parent that you are, we’re sure you’ve thought of everything! Or almost, everything. During this busy time, many people forget about the importance of taking care of their children’s dental needs. But the start of the new school year is a great time to revamp your oral care habits and prioritize a healthy mouth. Here are three tips you can do today to get your children (and their teeth) ready for the school year.
Schedule a Dentist Appointment
Did you know that according to a study in 2015, one-third of children miss school due to dental problems? One way to avoid missing school to take care of your child’s oral needs is to schedule an appointment with your dentist now. A routine cleaning and dental exam will alert you of any potential problems before they arise or address any dental needs before make-up work is given to your child. Your dentist may recommend sealants or fluoride treatments to help prevent cavities.
Level Up Their Lunch
When you pack your child’s lunch, you may already limit sugar knowing that too much sugar can lead to cavities. However, most people underestimate salty snacks. Starch in chips and crackers break down into a sticky substance that coats teeth and can lead to decay. Try subbing in nuts for a salty snack and encouraging your children to eat baby carrots and celery sticks when they want something crunchy.
Make Oral Care Fun
To help younger kids get excited about taking care of their teeth, try adding some fun elements to your dental hygiene routine. Create a sticker calendar to help your children keep track of when they brush and floss their teeth each day. Children and adults should brush their teeth twice a day and floss once, preferably in the evening. Another fun idea is to bring some music into the bathroom. Create a playlist of your kids’ favorite songs and have them brush their teeth until the two-minute song is over. Encourage your child to get involved in their dental hygiene by picking out a toothbrush in their favorite color or with their favorite character/theme.
Begin teaching your children the importance of choosing the right snacks, prioritizing their oral hygiene, and scheduling regular dental appointments. If you’re looking for a family dentist you can trust in Bryan/College Station, contact Atkins & Anderson, DDS to schedule a routine cleaning for every member of your family.