Back To School Dental Health Checklist
Summer is over and the kids are headed back to school. You’ve probably already bought new clothes and school supplies, but have you considered your children’s dental hygiene? To protect your kids’ dental health, here are a few things you can do to provide a healthy start to the new school year.
Schedule a dental cleaning and checkup
Just like adults, kids should visit their dentist twice a year. Their teeth should be examined for any irregularities and a cleaning performed to get rid of plaque buildup. If your children are due for a trip to their local dental clinic in Edmonton, now’s a great to make the appointment.
New toothbrushes
Toothbrushes should be replaced every three months or sooner if the bristles have started to fray. Letting kids pick out their own brush is great way to keep them interested in their dental hygiene. While you’re at it, you can also pick out a fluoride-containing toothpaste in your children’s preferred flavour and a roll of dental floss.
Re-establish a daily dental routine
During the summer months regular routines often get thrown to the wayside. If this is the case in your household, now’s the time to re-establish healthy habits. For great oral health, children should brush their teeth twice every day and floss at least once.
Plan for healthy lunches and snacks
When it comes to their oral health, what your children do and don’t eat can make a big difference. You probably already know that too many sugary treats can lead to cavities, but starchy and acidic foods and drinks can be just as problematic. Reduce or eliminate pop, juice, chips and crackers from your children’s diet. Instead, offer the following tooth-healthy foods:
- Crunchy fruits and vegetables (apples, carrots, bell peppers, celery, etc.)
- Hard cheeses
- Nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.)
- Plain yogourt
- Leafy greens
- Milk
- Meat and fish
- Eggs
Mouth guards for sports
If your children play sports—especially contact sports like hockey or football—then you should speak to their dentist about custom-made mouth guards. Wearing a fitted mouth guard is the best way to protect teeth from sports-related injuries.
Consider sealants
Children often have a difficult time brushing their teeth, particularly the ones at the back of their mouth. This makes them far more susceptible to dental decay. Sealants can help reduce the risk of developing cavities by coating the grooves in teeth that are susceptible to accumulating plaque. Speak to your children’s dentist to find out if a sealant is a good option for them.
A dental clinic in Edmonton for the whole family
If you’re looking for a family dentist that caters to all members of your household, look no further than Janz Family Dental. We provide a complete range of dental services in a caring and comfortable clinic. Contact us to make an appointment today.
