Summer Dental Tips for a Healthy Smile
Posted on June 7th, 2024 | Christopher Neal
As summer approaches, it’s time for fun in the sun, vacations, and plenty of outdoor activities. Amidst all the excitement, it’s important to keep your child’s dental health in mind. At Chicago kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that summer can bring changes to daily routines. This can impact your child’s oral health and hygiene.
Below are some essential summer dental tips to help ensure your child maintains a bright and healthy smile throughout the season.
8 Summer Dental Health Tips for Kids
- Stick to a Routine
One of the best summer dental tips is to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine. With school out, children’s schedules become more flexible. It’s crucial to ensure they still brush their teeth twice a day and floss daily. If this becomes difficult, try to set reminders or create a fun chart to track their brushing and flossing habits.
- Stay Hydrated With Water
Summer activities often mean more time spent in the heat and sun. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water instead of sugary drinks like lemonade or soda. Drinking water not only keeps them hydrated but also helps rinse away bacteria and food particles, reducing the risk of cavities.
- Limit Sugary Foods and Beverages
Ice cream, popsicles, and soda are popular summer treats, but they can lead to cavities. So, what summer foods are good for your teeth?
Reach for fresh fruits, yogurt, cheese, fish, and vegetables. If your child does indulge in sugary snacks, have them rinse their mouth with water or brush their teeth afterward. This helps keep their teeth clean and is just one more way to prevent tooth decay.
- Protect Teeth During Sports
Many kids participate in sports during the summer. Whether it’s soccer, baseball, or gymnastics, wearing a mouthguard can prevent dental injuries. Make sure your child uses a properly fitted mouthguard to protect their teeth from harmful impact.
- Avoid Chewing Ice
Chewing on ice can be tempting, especially on a hot day, but it can cause damage to your teeth. It can cause cracks or chips, or even damage existing restorations, leading to serious dental problems. Encourage your child to enjoy cold drinks without chewing on the ice that comes with them.
- Schedule a Summer Dental Check-Up
Summer is a great time to schedule a dental check-up for your child. Regular visits to the dentist help ensure that their teeth remain healthy and any potential issues are caught early. At Chicago kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry, we provide comprehensive dental care and preventative treatments to keep your child’s smile in top shape.
- Teach Healthy Habits
Use the summer break as an opportunity to reinforce good dental habits. Teach your child how to properly brush and floss their teeth. Make it a fun learning experience by using songs, videos, or a timer to ensure they brush for the recommended two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Be Prepared for Dental Emergencies
Accidents can happen, especially with active kids. Keep a dental emergency kit handy, including gauze, a small container with a lid, and our contact information. If your child experiences a dental emergency, such as a knocked-out tooth, contact us immediately for guidance and care.
By following these oral health tips, you can help your child maintain a strong, healthy smile throughout the summer. Remember, good dental habits established now will benefit them for a lifetime!
Contact Chicago kiDDS for Summer Dental Care
For more personalized dental tips for summer, schedule an appointment at Chicago kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry in Palos Heights, IL. Call us at (708) 448-6700 or contact us online. Let’s work together to keep your child’s smile bright and healthy all year long!
