Summer is here! With the sun shining and school out, it is easy to let dental care slide. But fear not! We’ve gathered our top summer break dental tips to keep your child’s smile bright and sparkling. So, sit back, grab a popsicle, and let’s explore the secrets to a healthy summer smile! 

Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is essential for supporting oral health, especially during the hot summer months when outdoor activities are in full swing. Encourage your child to stay hydrated throughout the day. Water rinses away food particles and promotes saliva production, reducing the risk of cavities. Avoid giving your child sports drinks or soda; their high sugar levels and acidic composition can negatively impact oral health.   

Limit Sugary Treats

Ice cream, s’mores, cotton candy, and other sugary snacks are a big part of the fun of summer. While an occasional treat is fine, too many sugary snacks can harm oral health. Swap out high-sugar desserts with fun, healthy alternatives, such as fruit kebobs, frozen yogurt bites, or watermelon popsicles.  

Maintain A Thorough Hygiene Routine

School is out, and living is easy! Although the days may be more relaxed, maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine is still critical. Begin every morning with brushing and end the day with brushing and flossing.  Maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine will help prevent tooth decay from sneaking into your child’s smile this season.  

Protect Their Smile

Summer break is packed with fun recreational activities, from sports camps to summer leagues. Surprisingly, over 3 million teeth are lost each year due to sports-related accidents, with basketball and baseball ranked as the biggest offenders. Consider investing in a mouthguard to shield your child’s teeth from potential harm while on the field. A custom-made mouthguard from a dental office is the best option for kids in contact sports, offering a snug fit and maximum protection. 

Schedule A Dental Check-Up

Did you know over 13% of children ages 5-19 have untreated tooth decay? With summer break freeing up your child’s schedule, now is the perfect time to schedule a dental check-up. Regular dental visits can catch any issues early and establish a treatment plan to prevent potential dental problems. 

Teach Good Habits

Just because school is out does not mean learning has to stop. Summer break is an ideal time to educate your child about the importance of good oral hygiene. Take the initiative to teach them proper brushing and flossing techniques, empowering them to own their dental health this summer break. 

Pack Healthy Snacks

Planning any road trips this summer? While it may be tempting to pick up candy bars or chips while on the road, pack healthy snacks instead. Cheese, yogurt, apples, carrots, and nuts are fantastic choices that benefit both your child’s smile and overall well-being. 

 

 

With these tips, you can ensure your child’s smile stays healthy all summer. If you have any additional questions on how to help your child maintain optimal oral health this season, do not hesitate to give our office a call. Have a happy and healthy summer break!