Get ready; school’s almost here. You’re probably busy preparing your kids for a successful year. Amidst buying school supplies and organizing schedules, it’s easy to overlook your child’s dental care. We get it. However, ensuring that your child’s teeth are in top shape before the school year begins helps get their well-being and academic performance a good start. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you keep your child’s dental health on track.
Schedule a Dental Check-Up
One of the most important steps you can take is to schedule a dental check-up before school starts. Regular dental visits help catch potential issues early, such as cavities, gum problems, or misalignment. This prevents pain or discomfort during the school year and avoids missed school days due to dental issues. Many schools even require proof of a dental exam for certain grades, so it’s best to get this done beforehand.
Update Your Child’s Dental Products
Back-to-school season is a great time to update your child’s dental products. Make sure they have a toothbrush that’s the right size and softness for their age. We recommend replacing their toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Choose a fluoride toothpaste because fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. Don’t forget to add floss or floss picks to their routine if they haven’t started yet. Consider introducing a fun, kid-friendly mouthwash for younger children to make oral care more enjoyable.
Pack Tooth-Friendly Lunches
You’ve heard that you are what you eat, and it’s true for your teeth and smile. The foods your child eats at school can greatly impact their dental health. Pack lunches that are low in sugar and high in nutrients to support strong teeth. Some of our favorites are apples, carrots, celery, and other crunchy fruits and vegetables, which naturally clean teeth and stimulate gums. We also love cheese and yogurt as they provide calcium and phosphates that help rebuild tooth enamel. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, and consider swapping juice boxes for water or milk to reduce the risk of cavities.
Establish a Consistent Oral Care Routine
With the busy school year ahead, make sure your child has a consistent brushing and flossing routine that fits into their schedule. Encourage them to brush their teeth twice daily for at least two minutes each time. Flossing can be done once a day to remove plaque and food particles between teeth. If your mornings are hectic, consider making toothbrushing part of your bedtime routine when things are quieter. You can use a timer or play a song to make sure they brush long enough.
Consider Protective Gear for Sports
If your child is into sports, particularly contact sports, protecting their teeth is essential. Get a mouthguard for them, either a custom-fitted one or one you can mold at home. Mouthguards can prevent chipped or broken teeth, nerve damage, or tooth loss. Discuss the best options for your child’s sport and needs with your dentist.
Teach Your Child the Importance of Caring for Their Smiles
Education is key. Teach your child the importance of taking care of their teeth and gums. Explain how good oral hygiene helps them avoid cavities and gum disease and contributes to overall health and confidence. Make it a point to model good oral hygiene yourself, as children often mimic the habits of their parents.
Prepare for Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can happen at school, so being prepared is important. Ensure your child knows what to do if they have a dental emergency, such as a knocked-out tooth or sudden toothache. Provide them with the school nurse’s contact information and ensure the school has your dentist’s contact details. For older children, consider packing a small dental first aid kit in their backpack, including items like gauze, a small container, and dental wax.
As you prepare your child for the new school year, don’t forget to prioritize their dental health. Schedule a dental check-up, update their dental products, pack tooth-friendly lunches, establish a consistent oral care routine, protect their teeth during sports, educate them on the importance of oral health, and prepare for emergencies, so that you can help ensure that your child’s smile stays healthy and bright all year long. A healthy mouth contributes to overall well-being, which is crucial for academic success and confidence in school.
For more tips on maintaining your child’s dental health or to schedule a back-to-school dental check-up, schedule an appointment with one of our dental providers.
Our team is here to answer any questions you have. You can also schedule an APPOINTMENT or a FREE CONSULTATION with one of our top Chicago dentists: Schedule online or Call us at 773-481-2200