Back-to-School Dental Checklist: Preparing Your Child’s Smile for Success

School is back in session! 

Amidst the shopping for school supplies and new clothes, it’s essential not to overlook a crucial aspect of your child’s overall health – their dental hygiene. A healthy smile not only boosts confidence but also contributes to better overall well-being, allowing your child to focus on their studies without any dental discomfort or sensitivity. Here’s a back-to-school dental checklist to help you prepare your child’s smile for success! 

Schedule a Dental Checkup 

Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining good oral health, catching potential issues early on, and ensuring a clean and healthy smile. During the checkup, the dentist will examine your child’s teeth and gums. This provides an opportunity to address concerns like tooth sensitivity or braces adjustments, promoting better focus during school. The dentist can also offer valuable advice on oral hygiene habits and recommend a suitable diet for optimal dental health.

Lunchbox Packing Tips

When selecting foods for your child’s lunchbox, opt for items that are gentle on their teeth and contribute to a healthy smile. Here are some tooth-friendly options to consider:

• Encourage your kids to snack on crunchy fruits and veggies like apples, carrots, cucumbers, and celery! These foods stimulate saliva production and cleanse the teeth.
• Opt for calcium-rich choices like milk, yogurt, and cheese to support strong bones and teeth. 
• Incorporate lean proteins like turkey or chicken for tooth strength. Also, choose whole grains over refined grains to promote better overall oral health. 
• Encourage your child to drink more water! It not only energizes and rehydrates your organs and muscles; it also helps create more saliva in your mouth. More saliva means less tooth decay and stronger tooth enamel!

Creating an Oral Hygiene Routine 

Getting back into the swing of things after a full summer can be difficult. To ensure success, It’s important to establish a morning and evening routine. Encourage your child to brush immediately after breakfast and just before bedtime. Make sure they brush for a full two minutes to effectively remove plaque and bacteria. Additionally, emphasize the importance of flossing daily, as it helps clean between teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach.

To make brushing more enjoyable, allow your child to purchase a fun and colorful toothbrush, or even an electric toothbrush with their favorite cartoon! You can also introduce them to kid-friendly dental products like flavored toothpaste, which can encourage enthusiasm for brushing.

Montgomery Dentistry is Here to Help with Your Oral Hygiene Needs

Making the back-to-school transition can be hard, but don’t worry — Montgomery Dentistry is here to help with your oral hygiene needs. Call our office today to schedule your cleaning. Our staff is thrilled to partner with your family in setting up your students for success!