Back to School Dental Care Tips for Kids

When it’s almost time for the school year to start, parents and kids alike are both excited and busy. There can be so many things to prepare for school, including new school supplies such as pencils, books, and coloring materials.

One of the most important preparations, however, should be for your child’s oral health. Here are some tips to keep your child smiling happily throughout the school year:

1. Visit the dentist. If you have a regular family dentist, schedule your child for an appointment to have his or her teeth examined and professionally cleaned. If you don’t have a regular dentist, you can go online and search “dentist near me” to get a list of dental practitioners to choose from. You may be lucky to have a nearby dentist who specializes in pediatric dentistry.

2. Help your kids enjoy “teeth time”. Brushing and flossing are very important habits to build. Encourage your kids to build good habits by making it a fun time for them. Let them pick a kid-friendly toothbrush in their favorite colors. You can play their favorite music (at least two minutes long!) as they brush to make sure they clean their teeth well enough. You can also have them put stickers on your calendar every time they brush so they can see a record of their “accomplishment.”

3. Pack healthy snacks. The food your kids eat is not just important to their physical health; it is crucial for their dental health as well. Prepare healthy snacks like nuts, cheese, and carrots instead of crackers and chips.

Maintaining your kids’ dental health is a team effort. Do these tips to make sure you and your kids enjoy good dental health. Of course, also be there to give them supervision and guidance as they brush and floss their teeth.