In the next few days and weeks, kids will be coming from school for summer break. Without the right oral hygiene routines, this time off could mean changes to schedules and even a higher risk of tooth decay. But we have a few tips for better oral health during their summer break! In today’s blog, Sunny Smiles talks about our approach to children’s dentistry.
How Summer Break Could Lead to Cavities
What makes summertime such a risk to our smiles, especially for kids? During summer break, kids will experience a change in their usual routine. They stay up later, and tend to sleep in more, which means their brushing and flossing habits can change significantly. Forgetting to brush and floss then allows the risk of cavities to increase. Kids also tend to snack more, and will often reach for a sugary option or a beverage like a soda or fruit juice, which contains sugars and acids. As a result, their smiles tend to be more likely to develop tooth decay during these months. But we have a few tips for better protecting their smiles!
Proper Brushing and Flossing
A major way to safeguard their smiles is with better brushing and flossing. Kids should begin their day by brushing for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush, manual or electric, and a toothpaste that contains fluoride. They also need to repeat this before they go to bed. These actions remove stray food and drinks particles to limit the risk of harmful buildup and tooth decay. Flossing before they brush that second time is also essential, as this dislodges and removes what a toothbrush may not be able to reach. Kids can also limit their sugar intake, which is possible if you provide them with options like fresh fruits and veggies, low fat yogurts, cheeses, nuts, and whole grain crackers and bread.
Scheduling Your Checkup and Cleaning
A visit for a checkup and cleaning is also essential, as we can monitor their smiles and catch trouble early, and then clean the teeth to remove harmful plaque and tartar. We can also discuss treatments like fluoride and dental sealants to help further protect their smiles from cavities. A visit now means they don’t have to miss school and risk falling behind, and you can return in six months during their winter break before their next visit!
If you have any questions about how we protect children with routine care, then contact our team today to learn more and schedule their next visit!
Call Sunny Smiles for Children’s Dentistry
We want to help your little ones avoid tooth decay during their time off from school. To find out more about our office or to schedule an appointment, please call Sunny Smiles Family Dentistry at 915.849.9000 today.