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Now that the school session is taking a hiatus and your kids are planning for trips to camp and other exciting destinations, is their dental health up to par? Before they load up in the car, it’s a good idea to take an inventory of their dental health with your dentist. Because children are more focused on play and having fun, they are also more likely to neglect good nutrition and forget their oral health regimen altogether.
Play By The Rules
There’s a certain amount of lacklusterness that prevails during the summer months. Things tend to slow down, whereby (and depending on) where you live, afternoons are reserved for frolicking in the pool, having bbq’s, and sitting by campfires during the evening cooldown. But how does all this factor into your child’s teeth? Before you rush off to the next event with your little one, prepare them with proper foods and dental hygiene they can get on board with. It could be an “aw Mom” moment, but one in which their oral health doesn’t suffer. Kids need the guidance and the understanding to see how certain activities and certain foods can affect their teeth. Some important points to remember:
–Pack healthy snacks for their lunches. Raw carrots, celery, string cheese sticks, unsalted peanuts, and apples will satisfy their cravings for more sugary, processed foods.
–Make sure they brush their teeth twice daily, and floss at least once before they go to bed.
–Have them drink plenty of water. Try to avoid fruit juices or sodas, as these will wreak havoc on their gums and teeth.
–Be sure they stick to activities that aren’t too aggressive, unless they’re highly trained in the skill. It’s easy for a novice child to injure themselves and their teeth when they engage in sports they’re not prepared for.
–After each meal, guide them to swish warm water in their mouths if they aren’t able to brush their teeth right away. This action will alleviate any buildup of temporary bacteria.
–Teach them to indulge in moderation with foods that can stain their teeth, such as cranberry juice, colas, iced teas, soy sauce, grape juice, beets, or dark chocolate. As much as they might want to consume these foods and beverages, a little goes a long way.
–Give them encouragement and insight on how poor dental health could affect the whole of their bodies. The more they know, the more they are able to take precautionary measures, even if it doesn’t sink in right away.
Have Fun!
Summer for kids is the best time of year! If they have the tools and preparation for enjoying it they can look forward to every day with vigor. Dr. Emanuel Kontos has got your child covered. At our office in Tarpon Springs, FL, we are ready to assist your every need to prepare your child’s teeth for summer fun. Give us a call and we’ll ensure their oral health is ready as well.