Ask a Doc: Brushing up on your child’s back-to-school dental checklist
Question: With the start of school just around the corner, what should a child’s back-to-school dental checklist include?
Answer: For an A+ dental report card for your child, follow these “assignments.”
Diet
The foods we consume directly affect our body, including our teeth. As parents, we should minimize the amount of added sugar in our kid’s diet. Check the labels of the beverages you buy. Juice, sports drinks, and soda are loaded with added sugar. Routine consumption of these drinks has been linked to obesity, diabetes and tooth decay.
Doc’s tip: Limit milk to meal time, juice to 6 ounces a day,and eliminate soda. Give your kids water instead. It naturally cleanses the teeth and helps neutralize the pH in their mouth.
Oral hygiene
Don’t forget to include toothbrushes and toothpaste to your “back-to-school” supply list. I always recommend a soft bristle brush, and these should be replaced every 3-4 months. Brush at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes each time and floss daily.
Doc’s tip: After brushing, spit but do not rinse. This allows the fluoride to stay on the teeth and repair the tooth surfaces.
Check-ups
If you were too busy trying to escape the heat this summer, take the time now to schedule an appointment for your kids. They should generally see their dentist for a check-up twice a year. A thorough exam and professional cleaning will ensure they maintain their healthy smile.
Doc’s tip: Ask your dentist about fluoride and dental sealants. These provide added protection against tooth decay.
Emergency
With sports and outdoor activities ramping up, it’s essential to wear the proper gear to ensure your child’s safety. Properly fitting helmets and mouth guards should be considered in any activity with the potential of a collision. Also, in case of a dental emergency, save the number of your kids’ dental office in your phone. They can provide helpful information in a dental crisis.
Doc’s tip: Ask your dentist about custom mouth guards. These are superior to those you find in sporting goods stores. I recommend them for all sports, including baseball, soccer, and skateboarding.
Cayce Wallace, DMD, is a board-certified pediatric dentist with Arcadia Pediatric Dental (www.arcadiakidsdental.com). He is health-minded and the father of three.
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