Back-to-School Dental Tips
August 31st, 2021
Cornerstone Family Dentistry is holding a School Supply Drive (ends August 31st) with all donations directed to the YWCA to support their Centennial Crescent Housing Program which provides second-stage housing for women-led families impacted by violence and abuse that are in need of school supplies for their children. In celebration of this, we decided to put together some back-to-school dental tips!
Your preparation list might include buying new backpacks, lunchboxes, clothes and school supplies but, it should also include the following to maintain children’s good oral health care.
Book a Back-to-School Dental Appointment
Dental issues like cavities are one of the main reasons for students missing school. By scheduling a dental appointment before school begins, a dentist can detect any potential dental issues including possible cavities. Any issues can be treated before they become problematic thus preventing school absences.
Re-visit and practise good dental habits
When getting kids back into the early morning school routine, encourage them not to rush their dental routine. For younger children this may require supervision.
Remind your child(ren) that brushing properly twice a day and flossing once a day are great ways of preventing cavities and trips to the dentist to fill those cavities or remove the cavity filled tooth.
Replace your child’s toothbrush
Toothbrushes need to be replaced every 3 months or earlier if the bristles are frayed. Inspect your child’s toothbrush. If it needs replacing add it your back-to-school shopping list.
Start planning lunches that are dental health friendly
For example, swap out sugary snacks for healthy ones like fruits, nuts, seeds and raw vegetables. Replace sugary drinks like fruit juices containing added sugars and soft drinks with tap water, still or sparkling bottled water and milk.
The occasional sweet treat should certainly not be disallowed but, remind children to eat the treat after eating the other lunch items. In this way, the previous food eaten can help protect teeth against the sugar found in the sweet treat.
Purchase protective gear as necessary
Going back-to-school means the return of gym class, extracurricular school sports and other organized sports. If your child or children participate in sports, consider having them fitted for a mouth guard to prevent potential mouth injuries. While over the counter mouth guards work, they often do not fit well and can be uncomfortable to wear. On the other hand, a custom-made mouth guard will fit teeth properly, are comfortable to wear and will protect teeth, lips, cheeks and tongue from injury.
We can help by making a custom fit sports guards in a variety of different colours so make sure to book your appointment before school starts!
Sources:
Growing Smile Dental
https://growingsmiledental.com/back-to-school-reminders-start-the-school-year-with-a-smile/
Whistler Dental in the Village
Marlborough Dental Centre
Posted in Children's Dentistry