Sunny days, time off from school and sand between your toes are summer staples. But with time outside, time at home and tourist spots come sugary drinks, snacks and forgotten toothbrushes.
June is National Oral Health Month—a time to remember the importance of good oral hygiene for the whole family. Whether you’re packing your bathroom bag for a trip or just restocking the bathroom cabinet at home, here are a few things that will help you and your kids stay on top of caring for your teeth.
Toothbrush
Having your child pick out their own toothbrush can get them excited about brushing their teeth. Both manual and powered brushes can be effective, so what you and your child pick is up to you. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing teeth for two minutes twice a day with a toothbrush that has soft bristles. Remember, toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months, or more often if the bristles are visibly matted or frayed.
Fluoride Toothpaste
Both kids and adults need at least a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for each brushing. Be careful when picking out toothpastes, as not all kids’ toothpastes contain fluoride, which is a requirement for the ADA’s Seal of Acceptance.
Floss
Flossing helps prevent bad breath caused by lingering bacteria and food, leads to fewer cavities and improves overall oral health. Choosing the right floss doesn’t need to be complicated. First, look for the ADA’s Seal of Acceptance. Next, consider the size of the gaps between your child’s teeth. For wider gaps, try thicker floss. For smaller gaps, pick a thinner option. Everyone should floss at least once a day.
Brush Chart
Whether your child’s brush is manual or powered, what’s important is that they use it. By using a sticker or marker chart, you can help your child form lifelong good habits for taking care of their teeth. For a little extra fun, use tooth-shaped stickers!
Regular Dental Checkups
Kids (and adults) should be seeing their dentist at least once every six months for a checkup. Regular checkups are important because they can catch any problems early. Seeing the dentist often also helps reduce dental anxiety by keeping your child comfortable with being at the dentist’s office.
Healthy Snacks and Beverages
When it comes to staying healthy and hydrated, it’s hard to beat water. A sugary summer soda might seem like a nice treat, but in excess, all that sugar can seriously harm your child’s teeth. Encourage your child to drink water by letting them pick out a reusable water bottle with a straw, and make sure they take it with them on the go. For snacks, keep the house stocked with crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery or fruits like apples and oranges. Parents can also prepare small containers with chopped veggies and fruits so kids can access them more easily than they can grab candy, chips or sticky treats.
