School’s out, and your kids are likely enjoying fun in the sun during the summer. But how can you make sure that your child’s smile stays healthy and strong throughout the warmer months, and avoid tooth decay from sweet treats? Below, Big Picture Pediatric Dentistry will go over a few steps you should take to keep little smiles healthy during the summer.
Heading out for a summer vacation? Make sure that your kids have all of the dental essentials they need, including a travel toothbrush, travel-sized toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash.
In addition, you’ll need to make sure that your kids maintain a good oral hygiene routine during vacation. They’ll probably be eating more sweet treats and desserts and drinking more sugary beverages, so it’s especially important for your kids to brush twice a day for two minutes.
Ideally, your kids should brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes, and floss their teeth once per day. Depending on their ages, you may need to brush and floss for them. But if you have older kids, it’s important to supervise them and make sure they’re sticking to their “summer smile” routine.
You can even make brushing a group activity, and do it with your kids to lead by example (and to keep an eye on their brushing habits). Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is essential for avoiding cavities and gingivitis in the summer.
Yes, summer brings along sweet treats like Popsicles and sugary sodas, but you and your kids should limit the consumption of sugary foods and drinks, and enjoy them only on special occasions. Overconsumption of sugar is bad for your teeth and your overall health.
Instead, choose healthy snacks like string cheese, whole grain crackers, fresh fruits and vegetables, and other foods. Remember that food that’s good for your child’s body will also be good for their teeth!
It’s best to try to avoid dental emergencies in the summer. If your child plays contact sports, make sure they have a custom-fitted mouthguard to help prevent the risk of tooth damage or loss while playing sports.
Also, make sure your child doesn’t chew hard foods like ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy, which can crack or damage the teeth.
In addition, discourage unhealthy oral behaviors in your child, such as biting or chewing non-food objects or using teeth as “tools” to help open packages or tear tape.
It’s best to see a dentist during the summer if you can, before back-to-school. It’s easier to make time to see Dr. Jason Brock for pediatric care during the summer, since you won’t have to worry about your child missing school.
In addition, children’s dentists tend to be quite busy during the early school year, so a late summer “back-to-school” appointment is a great way to ensure your child can get the care they need before going back to school.
With the above tips, you can keep your child’s teeth healthy this summer. So make sure you follow them, and if your child is overdue for a pediatric dental appointment, contact the team at Big Picture Pediatric Dentistry. You can call us at (281) 461-7470 to schedule a visit with Dr. Jason Brock, and get your child the dental care they need in Houston.
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