As the end of summer approaches, it's time to start thinking about the kids heading back to school. It's the end of lazy days and back to a daily routine that can be good for maintaining your child's dental health.
Here are some tips on smoothly transitioning into the new school year while keeping your child's dental health on track.
#1 Schedule Your Child's Routine Dental Visit
If it's time for their next teeth cleaning and checkup, consider scheduling it before summer ends so you don't have to contend with missing time at school. If they're not due for their next preventive visit, book your appointment now so you have a better selection of convenient times for their busy school schedules.
#2 Get a Custom Mouthguard
Did you know that sports injuries account for nearly half of dental emergencies? If your child participates in sports, it's a good idea to protect their smile and dental health with a mouthguard, and your dentist in Vienna, VA, can make a custom guard for them.
A custom mouthguard provides a better, more secure fit that doesn't distract from their game time performance.
#3 Provide Healthy Snacks
Snacks are essential to fuel your child's mind for optimal learning. However, you can also protect their oral health by providing healthy snacks.
Think fruits and vegetables, such as apples, carrots, or strawberries, instead of sugary snacks. Opting for chips or crackers could also be detrimental to their oral health, as starchy snacks tend to stick to teeth and then convert into sugar, which promotes tooth decay and cavities.
Also, provide a water bottle so your child can stay hydrated throughout the day and avoid sugary juices or soda.
#4 Reinforce a Consistent Home Care Routine
The start of school is an excellent time to review your child's brushing and flossing habits and techniques to ensure they're making the most of their home care routine. Brushing twice a day is recommended, as is flossing once.
If you'd like to schedule your child's next preventive teeth cleaning and checkup, contact your Vienna children's dentist at (703) 281-7104.