Back to School Tips on Keeping Your Teeth Happy and Healthy

 

 

Going back to school means the kids are out of the house, but that doesn’t mean dental hygiene has to be put on hold! Here are some great tips to maintain dental hygiene going back to school:

Stay on a routine
No matter how eventful the end of summer is, supervise that children are brushing twice a day for 2 minutes with fluoride toothpaste. Simple things like brushing calendars can help everyone stay on track for the coming school year. It is important for families to consistently brush and floss, which keeps kids on track for healthy back-to-school dental visits!

Say no to sugary drinks / snacks
Be sure to watch your family’s intake of lemonade, juice and soda in the warmer months leading up to school. Consider sugary drinks treats to enjoy once in a while, and not very often. Don’t let the summertime relaxation damage your child’s smile. If you find yourself spending more time at home, use this time to snack wisely! Fruit snacks and other gummy foods are high in sugar, which can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Replace them with healthier options like fresh fruit and vegetables.

What to eat
Some great options to incorporate into your children’s diet that will kick start them for school are options like grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables. Whole grains like oatmeal, wheat bread, and brown rice are high in fiber and help keep your energy up all day! Lean proteins like poultry and fish have less calories and still pack in the needed vitamins and healthy fats for a balanced diet. You may even think about also incorporating eggs and beans as well! Fruits and veggies are always a great idea! Eating blueberries, broccoli, and even oranges help boost brain function. Eat these throughout the summer and into the school year to set your child up for success.

Water, water, water
You may not know this, but water cleans your mouth with every single sip! It washes away leftover food and residue that cavity-causing bacteria are looking for. It also dilutes the acids produced by the bacteria in your mouth. You’ll still need to brush twice a day for two minutes and clean between your teeth, but drinking water through the day will go a long way toward keeping your smile cavity-free.

With these tips, we know you will shine in the coming school year. You can also set up an appointment with us for any questions you may have! Call us today at Cahill Avenue Dental Office Phone Number 651-451-9101, we would love to hear from you!