4 Ways to Ensure Optimal Oral Health For Your Child

The start of a new school year is right around the corner, and if you’re like most parents, you want to make sure your child is equipped with everything they need to be successful. But apart from new clothing and the various supplies needed for the classroom, you should also make sure their pearly whites are in tip-top shape. A dentist in Midland is here to share four ways you can help your child take better care of their smile before they prepare to re-enter the classroom.

Make Sure They Have a Healthy Lunch

When it comes to packing their lunch, make sure it consists of a healthy balance of good, nutrient-rich foods. Although they might prefer a bag of fruit snacks or candy over an apple or blueberries, too many sugary and starchy foods can lead to cavities. Making sure they’re eating a good mixture of greens, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and low-fat dairy will help keep their smiles better protected and looking their best.

Oversee Their Morning and Nighttime Oral Hygiene Routine

Depending on the age of your child, you may need to help them brush and floss. Whether it is their morning or nighttime routine, you should be available to observe their habits so that their teeth and gums are properly cleaned. Once your child is capable of tackling these practices on their own, you can step back and watch, even if they are adamant that you don’t need to.

Create Fun Activities to Keep Your Child Engaged

If oral hygiene isn’t something your child currently gets excited about, there are things you can do to change that. For example, try turning it into a game or starting a dance party. Encourage your child to brush throughout the song and have fun dancing along to the music. You might also try incorporating a reward system. If they successfully brush and floss correctly for one week, they can choose to spend time at a local park or see a new movie in theaters. Smaller rewards can include stickers or an inexpensive toy.

Schedule a Back-to-School Dental Exam

Before it’s time for them to put on their backpack and head back to school, make sure you schedule a dental exam. Getting them in to see a children’s dentist is one of the best ways you can protect their smile for the upcoming year. Not only will this visit help to identify any problems early on, but it will allow their dentist to discuss positive habits and recommendations to keep their pearly whites healthy year-round. Not only will this keep them in the classroom learning, but they’ll feel more confident when speaking to their peers.

Give your child’s smile the care it deserves. By implementing these four tips, you can set them up for success in more ways than one.

About the Author
Dr. Laura Philipps is a children’s dentist who enjoys caring for young smiles. By providing preventive dentistry, she can minimize the potential for cavities and gum disease in those whose teeth are still growing. As your child’s mouth develops over time, she and her team will closely monitor these changes to ensure no issues are forming that require restorative or complex treatment. If you’re ready to bring your child in for a regular dental exam and cleaning, contact us at (432) 570-4433.