While you may be thinking of school supplies and new shoes, did you know that "Back to School" is also the perfect time to focus on oral health? It's true!
The Back-to-School Dental Checklist
Here's what your Scottsdale pediatric dentist wants you to think about as your kids head back to school.
#1 Recharge Your Home Care Routine
While you're shopping for school supplies, why not pick up a new toothbrush or a new flavor of mouth rinse to add to your children's home care routine? Heading back to school is the perfect time to put routine back in place after the lax days of summer and amp up their home care. Don't forget the timer to ensure they're getting their full two minutes of brushing time in.
#2 The Lunch Box and Snack Time: Smart Solutions
Kids are hungry when they get home from school! So, be sure to have plenty of healthy snacks on hand to curb their hunger before dinner. Here are some healthy snack and lunch box ideas:
- Crunchy Fruits and Veggies — Think apples, celery, carrots, and cucumbers. Crunchy fruits and veggies increase saliva flow, which neutralizes the acids in your child's mouth and washes away food debris after eating.
- Lean Proteins — Choose turkey lunch meat, or tuna, egg, or chicken salad sandwiches for protein. Hard-boiled eggs are also a quick and easy source of protein.
- Nuts and Seeds — A super simple snack that delivers protein and healthy fats.
- Calcium-Rich Choices — Think plain yogurt or string cheese. Calcium helps to strengthen tooth enamel and neutralize cavity-causing acids.
#3 Schedule a Dental Checkup
Don't forget to book your child's preventive dental checkup and teeth cleaning. Bonus points if you schedule before school starts, so they don't miss any important class time!
Talk with your Phoenix pediatric dentist about sealants, fluoride treatment, and sports guards to protect your child's smile if they participate in sports.
Your team at Tatum Pediatric Dentistry wishes you and your family a safe and happy back-to-school season! Contact us at (602) 788-4873 if it's time to schedule your child's next dental appointment.