The end of summer is quickly approaching, and in the hustle and bustle of getting the kids ready to head back to school, it’s easy to neglect your family’s oral health. Dr. Allie Miller of Pediatric Dentistry of Winter Park in Winter Park, FL can make the back-to-school season easy with family dental care and tips to maintain your oral health.
1. Make dental appointments for your whole family
Making your appointments this time of year is a good way to remember to schedule your dental check-ups. Dentist’s offices fill up quickly, so be sure to make your kids’ back-to-school dental appointments soon before you have to work around school schedules and afterschool activities. While you’re at it, you should schedule yours, too!
2. Pack low-sugar items in school lunches
Packing school lunches can be stressful, and it’s easy to want to throw in lots of pre-packaged, sugary treats on busy mornings. However, it’s better for your health and your teeth if you plan ahead and pack low-sugar items. There are still some great low-sugar pre-packaged items that are worth the extra time to find. Or pack up some delicious natural snacks such as fruit, veggies or cheese.
3. Establish a time for tooth brushing
Believe it or not, kids actually enjoy having a routine, and establishing a daily oral hygiene regimen will set them up for a lifetime of good oral health. Dentists suggest brushing twice a day and flossing once a day, so it might be helpful to fit oral hygiene into the morning and bedtime routine.
4. Let kids choose their toothpaste and toothbrush
Make oral hygiene more appealing to kids by letting them choose their dental products. Point out the children’s dental products and show them where to find the ADA seal of approval. This is important because ADA-approved products have been determined to be healthy and safe for teeth. When they look forward to using their chosen products, it makes their oral hygiene easier and fun.
5. Reward good oral health
Find something to motivate your children to maintain their dental health. Did your child get a good report from Dr. Allie? Reward them with a favored activity or privilege to help reinforce and reward their hard work.
6. Know what to do in a dental emergency
Accidents happen, and knowing what the appropriate first response is after a dental emergency can help save a broken or knocked-out tooth. An adult tooth that has been knocked out must be kept moist, so instruct your child to place it between their cheek and gums. If this is not possible, keep the tooth in a glass of milk and contact your dentist right away.
For a cracked or broken tooth, wash the mouth out with warm water immediately and contact your dentist for follow-up care. If there has been any trauma to the head or mouth, seek emergency medical attention right away.
Dr. Allie wishes you a great back-to-school season! To schedule your family’s appointments, schedule with us online or call (407) 434-0267.