As fun as it is being a kid during the summer, it’s also enjoyable being a parent. It’s just so nice to see your children relax and spend more time outdoors being physically active, but there is one thing that can definitely put a damper on all the summer fun—cavities. Children actually tend to develop tooth decay more this time of the year than others due to a variety of reasons, but with these 3 simple tips, you can ensure everyone enjoys healthy smiles all season.
Stick to a Routine
As hectic as the school year can feel, most children end up falling into a pretty consistent regimen every day, which hopefully includes brushing and flossing. This routine goes out the window in the summer, however, meaning it’s easy for many children to fall behind on their oral hygiene. This can allow harmful plaque to build up on their teeth and cause decay, so be extra sure that your children are still brushing two minutes two times a day and flossing in the evening. These few minutes will save them hours in the dental chair getting a problem fixed!
Water, Please
Sugary drinks abound when the weather gets warmer, whether this refers to sodas, juices, or energy drinks for the teens. Everyone tends to drink more fluids as temperatures rise, and to keep your children’s smile safe, make sure they reach for water more often than not to quench their thirst. The drinks listed above not only contain the equivalent of about 20 packets of sugar each, but they are acidic as well, giving them a one-two punch that can damage tooth enamel surprisingly fast. It’s OK for your child (and you as well, for that matter) to enjoy a sweet drink from time to time, but most of their intake should definitely be water. This will keep them hydrated and their smile in great shape.
Schedule Their Back-to-School Appointment Now
It’s always a good idea for a child to see their dentist before school starts up again so any issues can be taken care of before their schedule clogs up with class, homework, and daily drama. It’s best to schedule this appointment before the August rush as well since this is when many parents will have the exact same idea. Bringing your child in for a July visit may seem a bit early, but you’ll likely have more flexibility when it comes to their appointment time, plus if there is a dental problem, there will be plenty of time to fix it so that it’s just a memory when school starts.
By maintaining good oral hygiene, drinking lots of water, and visiting their dentist, your child will have one less thing to hold them back from their summer fun. Of course, as a parent, one of the best things you can do is take great care of your own teeth in order to set a good example. That way, your entire household can have smiles as bright as the sun!
About the Author
Dr. Adam Cohlmia is a cosmetic and children’s dentist currently practicing at El Reno Family Dentistry. Summer can be a tricky time for a child’s dental health, so he’s always happy to offer parents useful tips they can use to protect their favorite smiles. Has your little one had their summer checkup yet? If not, be sure to schedule it before the rush! You can do so by clicking here.