Back to school Tips from our Dental Hygienists
Going back to school after a long summer break can be tough. Not only do you have to adjust to a new schedule, but you also must get back into the swing of things academically. And on top of all that, you should make sure you’re taking care of your family’s dental needs! Here are six tips from our dental hygienists to help you keep your teeth healthy and strong all school year long:
1. Get back into the routine.
It’s easy to let your oral hygiene habits slip during the summer, but it’s important to get back into the swing of things as the school year starts. Remind yourself (or your child) to brush at least twice a day and floss once.
Invest in a new toothbrush (or brush head). Starting the school year off with a fresh toothbrush can help encourage healthy habits from the get-go. If you have young children, look for powered toothbrushes that have interactive apps with tips, tricks, and rewards to help establish good habits.
2. Schedule a dental visit.
The best way to prevent dental problems is to visit your dentist regularly. This way, your dentist can catch any problems before they start and keep your smile looking its best. So be sure to schedule a checkup soon!
3. Wear a mouthguard.
If you (or your child) play any sports, it’s important to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury. Be sure to have your mouthguard fitted by your dentist so that it’s comfortable and effective.
4. Make an ortho kit.
If you or your child has braces, it’s important to be prepared with an orthodontic kit. This should include a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, proxy brush, wax, and extra elastics. Having a kit on hand will help keep the teeth and gums healthy and avoid embarrassment if food gets stuck in braces.
5. Pack low-sugar snacks and drinks.
Kids are hungry all day long! We encourage parents to pack a selection of low- or no-sugar treats, such as cheese and yogurt that contain minimal added sugar, or nuts, if the school allows it. Don’t forget to skip the crackers and cereals, which break down into sugars that cause decay.
When deciding on a drink for lunch, think about opting for water instead of sugary drinks. Some drinking water even contains fluoride, which will help fight caries and helps remove any leftover food particles, sugar, and residue from teeth to help prevent decay.
6. Don't forget fruits and veggies.
Fruits and vegetables are not only good for your health, but they’re also good for your teeth! Crunchy veggies, such as carrots or celery sticks, and fruit, such as apples, are beneficial for overall health. These snacks can also help stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acids. Even better, the nutritional benefits of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants keep tissues healthy.
We hope these tips help you (or your child) have a healthy and successful school year! From all of us at The Dental Care Group, we wish you the best of luck.
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