Every parent knows how important it is to instill healthy habits in children as early as possible. Some can even benefit your child in several aspects of their life! For example, did you know that good oral health can set your little one up for academic success? One study found that children with dental problems are associated with reductions in school performance because they’re more likely to be absent from school and less likely to complete required homework. So, by helping your child maintain a healthy smile, you can ensure they have a successful school year. Read on as your children’s dentist in Melbourne shares a few back-to-school oral care tips.
Get Into a Back-to-School Routine
To prevent dental problems, your child must brush their teeth twice a day and floss daily. You can help your little one stay on track throughout the year by establishing a back-to-school oral hygiene routine. Initially, you may need to remind them to brush and floss at the same time every day. But eventually, it’ll become an essential part of their daily routine, just like getting dressed in the morning or putting on pajamas at night!
Upgrade Your Child’s Toothbrush
Does your child dread brushing their teeth? It could be because it’s such a mundane task. Luckily, an electric toothbrush is a fun solution to this problem. You can get one that lights up, plays music, or has your little one’s favorite character on it! It’ll give them something to look forward to every time they clean their teeth.
Pack Tooth-Friendly Lunches
It might not seem like it, but lunchtime is one of the most important parts of your child’s day. Their food choices can easily make or break their oral health. If they’re constantly eating a sugar-filled meal, their chances of developing cavities, decay, or disease are much higher. Protect your little one’s smile by packing a healthy lunch that benefits their oral health!
Be sure to include foods that meet all their nutritional needs, such as:
- Deli meats
- Calcium-fortified dairy products (cheese, yogurt, milk)
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
Buy a Mouthguard
If your child participates in organized sports or other physical activities during the school year, make sure they wear a mouthguard every time they play. One blow to the face could easily result in chipped or broken teeth, fractured roots, and cut lips. You can purchase a mouthguard at any sporting goods store or custom-order one from your dentist. It’ll protect their pearly whites against any impact!
Schedule a Dentist Appointment
Your child should be seeing their dentist twice a year for a routine cleaning and exam. The beginning of the school year is an excellent time for a dentist appointment! It’ll allow your dentist to detect, treat, or prevent any concerning issues that could turn into complications down the road.
Before the first day of school, go over the tips outlined above with your child. Maintaining a healthy smile is the best way to ensure they have a successful school year!
About the Author
Dr. Beverly Rose earned her doctorate in dental medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Since then, she has attended numerous hours of continuing education courses to stay up to date on the latest in dentistry. Before your child starts school, Dr. Rose can perform a standard checkup to ensure their oral health won’t be a problem throughout the year. Visit our website or call (321) 259-4666 to schedule an appointment for your little one.