Summer break is fast approaching! We know your child is looking forward to a nice hiatus from classes and homework, but this doesn’t mean they get to take a vacation from their oral health! To keep your kid’s teeth and gums in good shape this summer, here are a few simple rules they can follow.
Rule #1: Don’t forget to brush.
It can be easy to get out of our normal dental hygiene routines when our schedules are less predictable. That’s why rule number one is to always start and end the day with a solid oral healthcare regimen. By brushing and flossing each day, your child will be able to avoid cavities, gingivitis, and more!
Rule #2: No chewing on ice.
We know it’s hot out, so it may be tempting for your child to chew on ice cubes to cool off. However, when the ice cubes melt away, the damage done to your child’s teeth does not. Our teeth are not built for breaking down these hard substances, so chewing on ice cubes can actually break a tooth. In these cases, it is best to err on the side of caution and stick to having a cold beverage instead.
Rule #3: Safety first.
When playing sports, your child always needs to wear their protective gear, whether that includes a helmet, shin guards, or—for the sake of your child’s teeth—a mouth guard! Mouth guards can significantly lower the risk of your child breaking or losing a tooth during a game.
Rule #4: No running by the pool.
Speaking of safety, this rule is a crucial one! One of the most common reasons that children experience dental emergencies during the summer is because of running by the pool. The pool deck often gets very slippery throughout the day, causing children to slip and knock out a tooth. So make sure they listen to the lifeguard when they shout, “No running!”
Rule #5: Stick to healthy snacks.
With warm weather comes the inevitable ice cream cone, popsicle, or soda. And while these treats can be enjoyed sparingly, they can do a lot of damage if you get carried away. After all, there’s a lot of truth behind the old adage, “Sugar rots your teeth.” When your child has too much sugar, it causes the bacteria on their teeth to release harmful acids. This lowers the pH levels of their mouths and, as a result, wears away their dental enamel. Ultimately, this can lead to tooth decay and cavities! Instead, try offering an array of fruits and vegetables as a healthy snack time alternative.
Are you ready for summer? Help your child start off their break on the right foot with a dental check-up and cleaning! To schedule their appointment (and yours!) call Valley Dental Care of Plainfield today.