Keeping young smiles healthy year-round takes time and effort. Whether a parent chooses to schedule a dental checkup before or after school starts, it is necessary that optimal oral hygiene be maintained at all times. To avoid the potential for cavities or gum disease even in smiles that are still growing and developing, there are three things a parent can do to stay on top of their child’s oral health and ensure a positive dental report, all of which are discussed in this article.
Pack Healthy Lunches or Instruct Them to Pick Out the Right Foods
Choosing the right foods to incorporate into a child’s lunchbox means taking the time to identify proper nutrients. Things like juice or canned fruit might seem like healthy options, but the truth is that they’re filled with added sugars and acidic ingredients, making teeth more vulnerable to decay. Fresh fruits, raw vegetables, whole grains, and water are some of the best items to pack or instruct a child to reach for when preparing to eat lunch. Not only will it keep them full, but it’ll also minimize the risk for cavities year-round.
Make Sure Good Oral Habits Occur at Home
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush as well as flossing and rinsing should be regular occurrences at home. Every morning and night, parents should make sure their children are practicing these oral habits and doing them correctly. By establishing and adopting good dental hygiene at home, children can develop positive behaviors that will remain with them as they grow into adulthood.
Also, by ensuring these practices are performed each day, they will learn the importance of good oral health and avoid missing vital information at school because of emergency dental appointments with their dentist in Channahon.
Ensure They Stay Hydrated
Instead of turning to sports drinks, fruit juices, and sodas to quench their thirst, children should be drinking plenty of water. Not only is it hydrating, but it provides more energy – something they need to keep them going throughout the day. It also helps to keep salivary glands working at an optimal level and flushes out bad oral bacteria that might try to burrow into the crevices of their smiles.
Giving children the tools they need to maintain healthy smiles is pivotal. With these helpful back-to-school oral hygiene tips, they’ll be on their way to receiving a positive report from their dentist the next time they visit.
About Grand Dental – Channahon
Grand Dental – Channahon has a team of skilled dental specialists, including a pediatric dentist that can offer the specialized care that your child’s one-of-a-kind smile deserves. When the time comes for your little one’s next appointment, we can provide you with the information needed to ensure a positive appointment. To schedule a pediatric appointment, visit our website or call (815) 240-9009.