Include these easy back-to-school dental tips in your routine
There’s no doubt that going back to school can be a time filled with chaos for many families. Between end-of-summer vacations, fall sports practice and back-to-school shopping, there is little time for anything else.
This hectic back-to-school schedule can mean a few things can get overlooked, including your child’s dental health. The Center for Health and Health Care in Schools says that more than 51 million school hours are lost each year due to dental related illnesses. Check out these simple back-to-school dental tips to help ensure your child’s smile is covered.
Replace toothbrushes
Replace toothbrushes every three to four months. Start the school year with peace of mind by putting a new toothbrush on your back-to-school shopping list. The American Dental Association recommends using soft bristled toothbrushes, which are gentler on teeth and gums.
Your child receives a toothbrush at the end of every exam and should be seen for a back-to-school dental exam to prevent and detect any dental issues this school year.
Choose smart snacks
When packing your child’s lunchbox, swap out sugary drinks and snacks, including dried fruits, for crunchy treats like apples, carrots and celery, which help remove plaque from teeth.
Did you know that the American Dental Association also recommends chewing sugar-free gum after meals to minimize plaque? Govani Dental recommends giving your kids Trident brand gum as an option. Your kids won’t even know they are practicing good dental care!
If you have questions about other healthy snacks, be sure to ask one of our trusted dentists at your child’s next dental visit.
Establish a dental care routine
The start of every school year also brings the start of a new schedule packed with practices, extracurricular activities and sleepovers. It’s critical to establish a daily dental routine that that’s easy for your child, no matter where they may be. Brushing and flossing twice daily is fun when paired with their favorite two-minute song. Keep a daily sticker chart in the bathroom as a reward for younger children.
Pack a bag with basic essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste and a change of clothes. Your child can keep at school to quickly freshen up after lunch or physical education class. It’ll also come in handy for last-minute sleepover invitations.
Protect your child’s smile
If your child is active in contact sports like football or hockey, make sure they are fitted for a mouth guard to protect their teeth against tackles and pucks. At-home kits are easy to use and make it simple to protect growing mouths. Another option is getting a custom fit sports guard made. At Govani Dental, we make guards that are custom fit for your child’s teeth. This allows for optimal safety and enhanced comfort when playing any contact sport. A properly fitted and comfortable mouth-guard is more likely to be used than one that your child has outgrown.
If you are interested or have questions regarding a custom fit sports guard for your child, be sure to talk Dr. Govani and her team at their back-to-school dental exam.
Schedule a back-to-school dental exam
Visiting the dentist before going back to school is an easy way to make sure your child’s teeth are in top condition. Mouth X-rays monitor growth and detect issues, while a routine teeth cleaning gives your child a fresh start before the school year starts.
Your child’s dental health doesn’t end when they walk out our doors. By practicing these back-to-school dental tips, your child will be ready to show off their brightest smile this school year! If you need to schedule your child back-to-school dental appointment, simply fill out the form below to schedule your visit or call (920) 231-1955.
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