
Back-to-school season can be an exciting time for kids—and parents too! As summer starts giving way to fall, your to-do list begins to fill up: there are clothes to buy, supplies to gather, and get-togethers with friends both old and new. Here are a few do’s (and don’ts) that can help keep your kids oral health in tip-top shape through this busy season…and all year long.
Do pack kids a healthy lunch
In addition to a protein like lean meat, eggs or peanut butter, a healthy lunch may include crunchy vegetables such as carrot or celery sticks, dairy like cheese or yogurt, and fresh fruits. Add a bottle of water and your kids will be all set to go!
Don’t include soda or sugary snacks
Foods with a lot of sugar—like soda, processed foods and sweet treats—aren’t a healthy choice. In addition to promoting obesity, sugar provides food for the harmful oral bacteria that can cause cavities. Even 100% juices have loads of sugar—so go easy on the sweets for better checkups!
Do be sure kids brush and floss regularly
That means brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and flossing once a day—every day! Brushing and flossing daily is the most effective way to fight cavities at home. If your kids need help, take time to show them how…and if you need to “brush up” on the proper techniques yourself, just ask us to demonstrate.
Don’t let kids chew on pencils or fingernails
Fidgety kids often develop habits like these to help themselves feel calmer. But chewing on things that don’t belong in the mouth is a recipe for dental problems—like chipped or broken teeth. Try giving them sugarless gum instead; if the problem persists, ask us for help.
Do ask about a mouthguard if they play sports
It’s not just for football or hockey—baseball, basketball and many other schoolyard sports have the potential to damage teeth and gums. A custom-made mouthguard from our office is comfortable enough to wear every day, and offers superior protection.
Don’t forget to schedule routine dental visits
With the hustle and bustle of a new school year it’s easy to let things slide. But don’t put off your kids’ regular dental checkups! Professional cleanings and dental exams can help keep those young smiles bright, and prevent little problems from getting bigger.
If you would like more information about children’s oral health, please contact us or schedule an appointment.
Comments:
Find Us
Joseph R. Hendrick, Jr., DDS, PA
Shelby, NC 28150

Request Appointment
Our office has flexible hours to fit your busy schedule
Patient Eductation

Archive:
- 2021
- 2020
- December (5)
- When Crowns and Bridges Are Necessary
- Targeted Tooth Removal Could Aid Treatment for Certain Bite Problems
- Listen to Ellen DeGeneres: Don't Think You Can Get Away Without Flossing!
- Are You Interested in Dental Implants?
- No Time for a Makeover? Try These One-Visit Smile Enhancements Before the Holidays
- 2019
- 2018
- 2017
- 2016
- 2015
- 2014
Tags
- celebrity smiles (66)
- cosmetic dentistry (9)
- orthodontics (12)
- headgear (1)
- Teeth Whitening (6)
- oral health (17)
- oral hygiene (26)
- Gum Disease (15)
- Dental Implants (17)
- thumb sucking (3)
- pediatric dentistry (13)
- dental hygiene (1)
- Clear Aligners (5)
- bridge (1)
- dental implant (5)
- chipped teeth (2)
- pregnancy (1)
- Teeth Cleanings (1)
- bad breath (1)
- retainers (3)
- tooth grinding (1)
- Veneers (3)
- laser dentistry (2)
- crowns (6)
- missing tooth (2)
- braces (14)
- periodontal disease (3)
- oral cancer (3)
- abscessed tooth (1)
- orthodontic treatment (21)
- smile makeover (3)
- dental anxiety (1)
- bacteria (1)
- wisdom teeth (6)
- Bridges (2)
- cracked mouth (1)
- mouthguards (5)
- restorative dentistry (4)
- bonding (1)
- root canal treatment (6)
- nutrition (2)
- Root Canal (3)
- apicoectomy (1)
- fluoride (2)
- tooth decay (6)
- emergency dentistry (1)
- porcelain veneers (4)
- athletic mouthguards (1)
- periodontal (gum) disease (2)
- invisalign (1)
- dental emergency (1)
- dental injury (6)
- teeth grinding (4)
- chipped tooth (4)
- air abrasion (1)
- dental crowns (2)
- dental bridges (1)
- pediatric care (1)
- x-rays (1)
- jaw pain (1)
- teeth wear (1)
- Root Canals (2)
- dry mouth (1)
- antibiotics (1)
- partial denture (1)
- periodontist (1)
- gummy smile (2)
- removable partial denture (1)
- Dental Visits (1)
- tads (1)
- Clear Braces (1)
- frenectomy (1)
- tooth pain (2)
- bone grafting (1)
- sports drinks (1)
- crown lengthening (1)
- dental sealants (1)
- teething (1)
- tooth loss (1)
- pain management (1)
- extraction (1)
- lingual braces (2)
- gum recession (1)
- facial pain (1)
- crown (1)
- toothbrush (1)
- athletic mouthguard (1)
- Oral Cancer Screenings (1)
- dental injuries (3)
- Oral Care (1)
- Routine (1)
- loose tooth (1)
- smoking (1)
- vaping (1)
- dry socket (1)
- sleep apnea (1)
- snoring (1)
- diabetes (1)
- extractions (1)