It’s that time again! September means back-to-school for kids everywhere. And for parents, this means getting your kids ready for the year ahead. Along with picking up all the necessary school supplies, co-coordinating schedules, and dealing with the back-to-school nerves, there is always a lot to do when this time of year rolls around.
We’ve got some helpful tips to make sure dental problems aren’t part of your back-to school stress:
Pack Tooth-Healthy Foods: Planning lunches and school snacks in advance can help you make the best choices for your child’s oral and overall health. Incorporate apples, carrots, hard cheeses, and other teeth-cleaning items. Sugary items should be avoided whenever possible.
Ditch the old Toothbrush: Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3-4 months, but it’s easy to forget. Use the beginning of the school year as an excuse to get a brand new toothbrush for your children as part of their fresh start.
Time for a Check-Up: A dental check-up and cleaning is always a good idea around the start of school. After a summer full of sweet treats, a professionally cleaned mouth will let you rest easy knowing that your child is cavity-free.
Plan a Routine: The key to proper oral hygiene is routine. Get your child in the habit of brushing in the morning and then brushing and flossing at night. If you have a fussy little one who doesn’t like tooth brushing time, there are plenty of ways to make it more fun for them, such as using a colourful toothbrush that they picked out themselves. See our past blog for more ideas.
Safety in Sports: If your kids plan to play sports at school, be sure to get them a protective mouth guard. This will keep their teeth safe in case of any accidents or injuries.
Our professional team at Southeast Dental in Markham is here to make sure your child starts their school year with their healthiest smile. To book an appointment, you can use our online form or give us a call at 905-471-2002.