3 Back-to-School Dental Tips to Impress Your Child’s Dentist

The start of a new school year can be a busy and challenging time. No matter how many children you have, the transition from lazy summer days to early mornings and perfectly timed drop-offs often mean readjusting to the “new normal.” Of course, these are not the only things you and your child must get used to again. Choosing the right foods for lunch and keeping up with good oral hygiene habits are also essential. Keep reading to discover three back-to-school dental tips you can help your child with so that their next visit to the dentist is a success.

Make Sure They’re Brushing and Flossing Regularly

The summer months can often mean late nights and sleeping in. While your child might enjoy not having to wake up to an alarm clock each day, they may be forgetting to brush and floss first thing in the morning or before going to bed.

Getting them back into the routine of taking care of their teeth and gums twice each day is essential when preparing to start the new school year. They’ll need to brush for two minutes in the morning and evening as well as floss at least once. Doing so will reinforce positive dental habits that will benefit them day after day.

Pack Healthy Foods and Water

It’s easy to grab the quickest and easiest foods in the refrigerator for your child’s snacks and lunch but too often, these pre-packaged meals can be harmful to their oral and overall health.

Instead, make sure they receive a healthy amount of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy. Packing cookies, chips, and crackers can be fine once in a while but not every day, as they can cause cavities and gum disease.

Also, swap fruit juices for water. This will not only keep their teeth and gums healthy, but they’ll remain hydrated during recess and PE as well.

Equip Your Child with a Custom Mouthguard

If your child plans to play sports this year, don’t let them step onto the court, field, or track without a custom mouthguard. These oral devices are pivotal in reducing the number of dental emergencies that can occur during a game.

When worn over the upper row of teeth, your child’s mouth will remain better protected against unnecessary pressure that might otherwise result in a cracked, broken, or knocked-out tooth.

Your child’s dentist can discuss ways to produce a customized mouthguard so that it feels comfortable when worn.

Making sure your child is ready to return to school takes time and energy, but following these helpful tips can put them on the right track and give their dentist a reason to smile.

About the Author
Dr. Xinxing Liu is a talented dentist who combines her artistic and scientific skills with her passion for helping others. Treating both children and adult patients, she enjoys being able to encourage young individuals to establish good oral habits early on so that healthier teeth and gums remain possible throughout adolescence and adulthood. When preparing a child to return to school after the summer, she and her team can offer helpful tips to keep smiles on track. If you are looking for ways to take better care of your child’s oral health, contact us via the website or call (469) 210-7223.