Most of us can agree that summer flies by quickly. This means the new school year can sneak up on you and catch you by surprise. We know this is a busy time for parents, but it is essential to remind your children about the importance of maintaining good oral care. Your child’s dentist in Edmonton wants to ensure they have a healthy smile for their first day of school and their last. We will be discussing some of the top dental tips for kids below.
Back to School Check-up
Booster shots and immunizations have always been a critical aspect of getting ready to go back to school. According to the Canadian Dental Association’s (CDA) recommendations, dental check-ups should be included in this routine. Young children are vulnerable to tooth decay–making this ailment very common. The most common chronic disease for children between the ages of 6 and 19 is cavities. Poor dental health can interfere with your child’s functioning. Oral issues could also prevent them from attending school, and as well all know, attendance is vital for your child’s learning.
Upon scheduling a back-to-school check-up, the Edmonton dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your child’s teeth. X-rays may be involved if your child has not received them in recent years. This diagnostic tool will allow them to eliminate any potential cavities or concerns that are not detected through a visual examination. A back-to-school check-up will provide your child with both the regular dental care needed and prevent unwelcome sick days.
Your Child’s Dental Hygiene Routine
Every parent wants their child to maintain an A+ dental hygiene routine. When we discuss dental tips for kids, we first must mention the basics. This comes down to how often your child brushes, how long they brush, and if they floss. These are guidelines set by the CDA and are crucial components of proper oral hygiene. As fall approaches, speak with your child about why and how these tasks are imperative. Be sure to show your child proper brushing and flossing techniques if necessary.
School supply season means stocking up on all the stationery your child requires. While you are at it, why not stock up on extra toothbrushes, fluoride toothpaste, and dental floss? After all, your child’s toothbrush should be replaced every three to four months, especially after an illness or if the bristles are beginning to fray. If you have replacements on hand, swapping out their toothbrush will be a matter of a few seconds. Forgot when it was the last time your child received a new toothbrush? Keep things simple and stick to this rule of thumb– switch to a new toothbrush every time report cards are sent home.
Healthy Lunches and Snacks
Healthy lunches and snacks are equally as beneficial as routine dental visits, proper brushing, and flossing. Your child’s diet intake provides them with vitamins and nutrients for healthy dental development and cavity management. Monitoring your child’s diet during the summer and holidays is easy as you are in charge of the menu. However, when your child returns to school, this can become trickier, especially if they purchase their lunch at school or have access to a vending machine. If your child prefers bought lunches, take a look at the school’s cafeteria menu beforehand. Discuss the food options with your child and emphasize the importance of making healthy choices like raw veggies, fruit, yogurt, cheese, and whole grains.
Mouth Guard Safety
If your child is a student-athlete or involved in recreational sports, you have likely dealt with an injury or two before. Your child should wear a mouth guard anytime they are participating in sports or an activity that carries the risk of heavy contact with other players. Where is the best place to find a mouth guard? A dental clinic near you. Your child’s dentist in Edmonton can provide more information on this custom-made device.
