Preventing Dental Emergencies This School Year

It seems like summer vacation just started yet here we are again, getting ready to head back to school! Now is the time to stock up on pencils, paper, backpacks, and some new clothes to replace what was outgrown over the summer. But don’t forget to add your child’s oral health to your checklist. Here’s how you can get your kids smiles looking back-to-school cool this fall!

Schedule A Checkup

Before the school year starts up again and life becomes busy with commutes, homework, and extracurricular activities, schedule your child’s semi-annual dental exam. This will not only give you time to make an appointment without having to miss school, but it can help correct any issues now before they become a bigger problem that means losing valuable instructional time to address a dental emergency.

“Brush Up” on Oral Health Skills

When school starts up again, it can be hard to find the time to check in with your children’s oral hygiene. Get a head start by looking in on them now to make sure they are brushing properly and flossing.

Get Supplies

You should replace your toothbrush every three months, so when you’re making that back-to-school shopping list, be sure you have plenty of toothbrushes to last for the rest of the year. Then, you can just toss the old one at the start of each semester, and your family will get an A+ in oral hygiene!

Furthermore, if your child has braces, be sure to supply them with a braces care kit for use while they’re away from home. You can include items such as:

• A toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Floss threaders
• Interdental brushes
• Mouthwash

Be a Good Sport

Does your child play sports? Be sure to provide them with a mouthguard prior to the new season. Speak to your dentist about getting a custom-fit mouthguard that will help keep their teeth safe all the while providing greater comfort than those over-the-counter boil-and-bite mouthguards.

Pack a Snack

You are what you eat, and if you provide a variety of healthy snacks for your child, they’ll not only have more energy, but they’ll be better able to safeguard their teeth from developing cavities. Look for treats like fresh fruit, cheese sticks, nuts or seeds (if allowed by the school), granola bars, and sandwiches on whole grain breads.

Also, send them off to class with a reusable water bottle so they can stay hydrated throughout the day without having to resort to sugary juices, soda, or sports drinks.

Remember, starting a new school year is an exciting time, full of adventure and opportunity. Help your child put their best foot forward this year by helping to provide them with the best tools to protect their oral health this semester and beyond!

About Our Practice

At Stroud Pediatric Dentistry, we want your children to feel safe and comfortable in our care. We go the extra mile to ensure that we provide a safe and caring environment that will put their minds at ease and even help educate them about the importance of their oral health.

To schedule a back-to-school appointment, please visit our website or call us at 817-441-2425.