Planning For Summer Break and Kid’s Dental Health

April 26, 2022 ABC Children's Dentistry

Summer is such a fun time for families, especially those with children.  Going to the beach, the amusement park or on trips to visit family is great; so is staying home for backyard cookouts and neighborhood fun!

Of course, you also want to be sure that your children observe good dental habits while they are enjoying their summer break.  Here are a few tips to help you give your children an enjoyable summer but still have a healthy smile!

• Limit sugary sweets. We often say that dental care starts from the “outside in.”  What goes into the mouth has a direct impact on dental health, so stop decay before it starts by limiting sugary snacks and sweets.  Be especially careful of candy that must be held in the mouth for a long period of time, and don’t forget to watch sugar in drinks as well.  Small children should be given water in preference to sugary juices, and all children should limit chips, cookies, candies and other snack food that forms plaque.  Fruits, veggies and cheese sticks are better choices, and healthier as well!
• Establish a good dental routine. Even when you are on vacation, tooth brushing, flossing and basic dental care should never be put aside.  Children should be brushing their teeth at least twice a day; after every meal and snack is ideal.  Be sure to pack their toothbrushes and favorite toothpaste when you go on a trip so that they will be ready to brush on time.  Perhaps now is the time to buy a special travel toothbrush that will encourage them to brush on vacation!
• Seek treatment before you go on vacation. It is difficult to find appropriate dental care when you are out of town.  Before you leave on vacation, schedule your dental appointments well in advance.  This will give your children’s dentist a chance to examine their mouths and determine if any work should be done prior to vacation, such as fillings that should be addressed.  If you find problems, take care of them before you leave on your trip.  While it takes a bit of planning ahead, it may prevent you from having a dental emergency just at the time you least need one!

Just because it is summer is no time to slack up on your children’s dental hygiene routines.  With a bit of forethought, you can set your children up to have a healthy, safe and happy summer break.  You will also save yourself the stress and worry that comes with children’s dental problems.

At ABC Children’s Dentistry, we pride ourselves on giving children the very best dental care year-round.  Our families are welcome and we enjoy working with parents to find the right dental routines for children.  If you are searching for a professional, compassionate and caring family dentist, look no further!  ABC Children’s Dentistry is ready to work with you–schedule your children’s dental care appointments today.