Back-to-school season is a busy time for families. Between school supplies, new clothes, backpacks and getting back into a routine, it can be easy to overlook one important part of your child’s back-to-school checklist: their oral health.
A few simple steps can help your child start the school year with a healthy smile and establish good habits that last throughout the year.
Schedule a Dental Visit
When was your child’s last dental visit? If it has been a while, the start of a new school year is a great time to schedule a checkup with their pediatric dentist.
Regular dental visits allow pediatric dentists to monitor your child’s oral health, identify potential problems early and provide preventive care. These visits can also help reinforce healthy brushing and flossing habits and give parents an opportunity to ask questions about their child’s developing smile.
Find a pediatric dentist near you at AAPD.org.
Check Their Toothbrush
A new school year is also a good reminder to take a look at your child’s toothbrush. A toothbrush with worn-out bristles may not clean teeth as effectively.
It may be time for a replacement if:
- The bristles are frayed, flattened or worn down.
- It has been about three to four months since the last replacement.
- Your child has recently been sick.
When choosing a new toothbrush, look for one with soft bristles and a size that is appropriate for your child’s mouth. And don’t forget to keep fluoride toothpaste stocked at home!
Pack Water for School
What goes into your child’s water bottle can make a difference for their oral health, too. Water can help rinse away food particles and keep the mouth hydrated. If your community’s water supply is fluoridated, drinking fluoridated water can also help strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.
Whenever possible, choose water instead of sugary drinks. Sports drinks, sodas, and other sweetened beverages can expose teeth to sugars, acids, and the Mouth Monsters that contribute to tooth decay.
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