It’s that time of year again when parents and children are thrown into a frenzy of emotions. Back to school is an exciting and stressful time for everyone, and it’s easy to lose track of key things such as dental appointments and healthy snack packing.
We appreciate your comprehension. Returning to school is already stressful enough, so allow us to assist you. Take a deep breath and use our back-to-school dental care checklist to guarantee that your child’s smile is picture-perfect.
Students’ Dental Exam
Dental examinations and tooth cleanings should be performed every six months as part of your child’s oral wellness program. Consider how much your child has grown and changed in the six months since the spring semester concluded. Additionally, their facial expressions changed.
Perhaps they required orthodontic treatment or were exhibiting cavity-related symptoms. When your child’s dentist sees him or her on a regular basis, he or she can identify any problems early on, averting more serious problems down the line. Isn’t it also lovely to have a cheerful face for school pictures?
It’s time to return to school while wearing braces.
Many children return to school dressed in new uniforms, but what if your child has braces? Oral hygiene is much different with braces, as anyone who has had them can attest, particularly when you initially begin.
- Establish a routine for brushing your child’s teeth following meals.
- Create a travel toothbrush, floss, toothpaste, and dental wax kit for your child’s braces.
- Create an emergency plan with your child so that he or she understands where to go and who to contact in the event of an emergency.
- If possible, encourage your child to carry a water bottle throughout the day to stay hydrated and to rinse away debris and bacteria.
- Furthermore, it is critical to discuss healthy eating habits with your child. Remind them of the improper ways to wear their braces and check to ensure they are wearing them properly.
Dental Care and Teeth-Friendly Snacks for Back to School
Consider whether you are prepared to return to school. Perhaps these ideas, strategies, and tooth-friendly snacks can reassure both you and your youngster about returning.
Dental Professionals’ Top Recommendations for a Successful Back-to-School Season
Returning to school creates unique challenges for children of all ages, and it frequently disrupts the morning and night routines during which oral care is typically addressed. Consider a few of these suggestions to help your youngster adjust more easily without risking his or her dental health!
- Schedule a dental examination. Include a morning brush as well as a bedtime brush in your normal routine. Floss your teeth regularly! Consistency benefits children of all ages and can help kids transitioning to new school schedules feel more secure.
- Allow your youngster to choose a toothbrush and toothpaste for himself or herself. No of their age, giving kids even the least amount of power over their lives can mean the world to them.
- Encourage individuals to consume plenty of water and avoid sugary beverages.
- Involve older siblings in the project. Big brothers and sisters can serve as an excellent role model for good dental hygiene, while also relieving you of part of the strain.
- Reward youngsters for developing healthy oral habits, especially those who require positive reinforcement.
Bear in mind how vital it is to discuss oral health. When you discuss the benefits of brushing, flossing, and eating tooth-friendly snacks openly with your child, you help him or her understand why they are required.
Healthy-Teeth Snacks
Lunchtime is one of the most social periods of the school day, and it is also a critical time to supply nutritious snacks to keep your child going. Even if you no longer pack a lunch for your child, keeping healthy snacks on hand will encourage them to eat well.
Suggestions for Eating Well in Elementary School
While gummy candy and flavored drink packs may be appealing, your child’s teeth may suffer as a result. Children in elementary school are growing rapidly and require nutrients to maintain strong teeth and gums.
Substitute healthy snacks such as milk, cheese, and tropical fruits for sugary foods and beverages. Mangoes and kiwis both have a pleasant flavor and are vitamin-dense.
Middle-School and Adolescent-Friendly Treats
Around middle school, lunch becomes more about socializing than eating, so it’s in your child’s best interest to provide a variety of tooth-friendly snacks. They’ll eat more if they can munch on something that doesn’t embarrass them or interfere with their social hour.
Cucumbers, carrots, and celery are good choices. Serve them with a dip or overnight marinate them in a herb mixture. Even better, those snacks are shared, which is advantageous for your child’s dental health and social development!
Final Thoughts on Back to School Dental Care
Phew! We cannot assist with supply lists or locating the perfect photo apparel, but our advice may reduce some back-to-school stress. Equipping your child with all pertinent oral health information is one method to prepare them for the future. In short, practice good oral care and keep tooth-friendly items on hand.