The last day of school for Loudoun County Public Schools is June 14th, which means summertime is just around the corner! Whether you have a fun beach vacation planned or are looking forward to relaxing with your child at home, this shift in their schedule and diet could lead to unexpected surprises, like cavities. However, with the proper preventive steps in place, you can rest assured that your favorite smile stays happy and healthy. Read on for four easy-to-implement dental hygiene tips for summertime.
Satisfy Cravings with Tooth-Healthy Snacks
Since your child will likely be at home more than usual during their break from school, taking care to stock the pantry with snacks that are lower in carbohydrates, like fresh fruits and vegetables, is an excellent way to curb cavities. This is because carbohydrates are a key source of fuel for oral bacteria known to cause decay. As bacteria feed on their carbohydrate fuel, they release waste in the form of enamel-eroding acid that can put teeth at a greater risk for decay.
Stay Hydrated with Water & Avoid Sugary Drinks
While sports drinks, juice, and soda may take care of your child’s craving for something delicious and sweet, just like foods that are high in carbohydrates, they can also increase your child’s risk of cavities. As an alternative, opt for sugar-free flavorings for water or plain water, as these beverage options can help your little one stay hydrated as well as rinse away harmful oral bacteria and food debris.
Stick to Brushing Before Breakfast & After Dinner
Even though your child will no longer be on their regular school schedule, keeping up their at-home oral hygiene routine can help avoid any unexpected cavities. If you will be going out of town, do not forget to pack their travel dental kit equipped with everything they need to keep their pearly whites plaque- and tartar-free! And of course, don’t forget to wait at least an hour after dinner to brush!
Schedule Their Summertime Checkup & Cleaning
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit their pediatric dentists every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. Before your child’s summer vacation begins, get the peace of mind necessary for both of you to enjoy the season with a clean bill of health. During this visit, your pediatric dentist in Leesburg will examine their mouth for any early signs of decay and their teeth will be thoroughly cleaned. If issues are identified, your trusted professional will develop a treatment plan to help address them.
The last problem you want to deal with during your family vacation is an unexpected toothache or sensitivity caused by a cavity. By following these four children’s dental tips, you can help your child get the most out of their break from school in addition to keeping their oral health on the right track.
About the Author
Dr. Vani Takiar, known as Agent T to her small sleuths, is our lead tooth investigator here at Tooth Clues. She is an experienced Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist with a commitment to staying up to date with the latest research and advancements in her specialty. With unique training and education on monitoring and treating developing smiles, Agent T offers a wide range of services that help children maintain and boost their oral health. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Tooth Clues’ website or call 571-755-4003.