July has arrived, marking the midway point of summer break. If you’re like many other parents at this time, you’re busy preparing for the upcoming school year. Whether you’re shopping for supplies or registering your child for after-school activities, there’s plenty to do.
However, you don’t want to forget about your little one’s dental condition in the back-to-school rush. Many schools require updated medical and dental records before beginning a new semester. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for kids to struggle with taking care of their teeth and gums, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. To prevent problems, keep reading to learn 3 tips that can help your child build and maintain a happy, healthy smile this year!
Tip #1: Establish a Routine
It’s not uncommon for children to avoid chores, and brushing and flossing their teeth often falls under this category in their minds. If your kid resists healthy habits, it might help to establish a consistent routine. They’re less likely to resist when they become accustomed to participating in certain activities at the same time every day. Setting up a steady and predictable timeline for dental hygiene helps them understand the importance of cleaning their mouths every day.
Tip #2: Let Them Choose
If your child tries to avoid scrubbing their teeth and gums when instructed, it might help to give them a choice about how it’s done. If they’re resisting because they’re frustrated by being told what to do, then why not give them a say in the matter? For example, you might have them pick out their own toothbrush. They come in a variety of sizes and colors and with various characters for young people to choose from. There are also different flavors of toothpaste, and choosing a flavor they think they’ll enjoy might encourage them to clean their teeth more regularly.
Tip #3: Schedule Dental Visits
Although cleaning their teeth at home is essential to prevent dental issues, it’s also important to take your child for a routine checkup and cleaning every six months. This allows their provider to catch signs of potential problems and treat them before they can progress into anything worse. Consistent visits also teach your kid the basic skills they need to maintain positive oral hygiene on their own so that as they grow up, they can naturally take on that responsibility.
By making a few simple changes, you can help your child keep their smile looking and feeling great for the new school year!
About the Author
Dr. Linda Steele has nearly 30 years of experience helping guide the growth of still-developing smiles. She completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery at Baylor College of Dentistry and then underwent a pediatric residency at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, MO. Now, she offers a wide array of services to meet all your child’s unique oral health care needs. She combines a fun and educational environment with state-of-the-art equipment to keep your kid comfortable while providing top-quality services for accurate results. You can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 640-7432.