Whether your child is heading into kindergarten or their final year of high school, you want this upcoming semester to be successful. Unfortunately, a serious dental injury – from a minor toothache to a completely knocked-out tooth – can prevent that from happening. Although accidents can’t completely be prevented, there are a few ways you can protect your child’s smile. So, here are five tips to prevent dental emergencies this back-to-school season.
#1. Implement a Solid Oral Hygiene Routine at Home
To prevent decay and infection, it’s of the utmost importance that your child is consistent with their brushing and flossing regimen. Naturally, this might be easier said than done. If you’re having a hard time motivating your child to do so, try buying them fun oral hygiene products, like a themed toothbrush. You can also entice them with a reward, like a new video game or toy!
#2. Pack Your Child a Smile-Friendly Lunch
It’s no secret that mornings can be hectic during the school year. If that’s the case, then do your best to plan your child’s school lunches ahead of time so they are convenient and benefit their oral health. Fresh fruit, plain yogurt, vegetable soup, and hard-boiled eggs are a few foods that are delicious, filling, and smile-friendly.
#3. Get Your Child a Mouthguard If They Play Sports
Simply put, your child needs to wear a mouthguard if they participate in sports. In fact, they should even wear one during non-contact sports, like skateboarding. Remember, all it takes is one bad fall for them to knock out a tooth, and a mouthguard can go a long way in preventing that from happening.
#4. Reinforce Good Habits Over Bad Ones
Over the years, your child may develop some unhealthy dental habits, like chewing on their pencil eraser while they are studying. Instead of punishing them, try reinforcing better habits, like squeezing a stress ball or chewing on some sugar-free gum.
#5. Schedule Their Biannual Dental Checkup Before School Starts
Last, but most certainly not least, make sure to schedule your child’s six-month dental checkups and cleanings before the school year starts. This will cut down on time missed in the classroom while also catching oral health problems in the early stages (before they turn into a dental emergency). Plus, their dental team can provide you with helpful feedback, from if they need to floss more to if they should start using mouthwash!
About the Practice
To protect your child’s smile from harm, our top-rated team at Kids’ Smiles on Lincoln offers a wide range of preventive services, including routine checkups and dental sealants. However, our team also provides last-minute emergency dental care as well. After all, accidents sometimes happen! If your child sustains a serious tooth-related injury (or you simply have a question pertaining to their oral health), get in touch with our team via our website or by phone at (508) 290-0090.