10 Kids Oral Care Tips for Summer

Summer is here, and while your kids might be thinking about vacation, ice cream, and beach days, it’s also the perfect time to reinforce good dental care habits. With a little extra attention to your children’s oral hygiene during the fun-filled summer months, you can help prevent dental issues that might otherwise dampen their sunny spirits. Here are ten dental care tips to keep your kids’ smiles bright and healthy all season long.

Maintain a Routine

One of the biggest challenges during summer is sticking to a daily routine, especially a kid’s oral hygiene routine. Despite the change in schedule, it’s crucial to ensure your child brushes their teeth morning and night. And when age-appropriate, incorporate flossing. Make dental care fun by letting them pick out their own toothbrushes and flavored toothpaste.

Set a Brushing Timer

To encourage thorough brushing, use a timer to ensure your kids are brushing for the full two minutes recommended by pediatric dentists. There are even mobile apps available that play songs for the appropriate duration to make the time fly by!

Stay Hydrated with Water

Kids are more active during the summer, which means they need to stay hydrated. Please encourage them to drink water instead of sugary drinks. Not only does water help with overall health, but it also washes away food particles and residue that can lead to cavities.

Healthy Snacking

Ice cream and popsicles are summer staples, but too many sugary snacks can harm your child’s teeth. Offer healthier alternatives like fresh, chilled fruits and vegetables, which help clean their teeth. Cheese and nuts are also great options that contain calcium and proteins essential for strong enamel.

Wear a Mouthguard for Sports

Summer sports are great for keeping kids active, but they can also pose a risk to their teeth. If your child is playing any contact sports, speak to their pediatric dentist about mouthguards. This will help to protect their smile from injuries.

Schedule a Dental Checkup

Summer break is a great time to schedule a kid’s dental checkup without worrying about pulling your child out of school. Regular checkups with a pediatric dentist can catch minor issues before they become bigger problems.

Apply Lip Balm with SPF

Just like skin, lips need protection from the sun. Encourage your child to use a kids-safe lip balm with SPF to protect against sunburn, which can lead to cold sores and other oral health issues.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Keep a dental first aid kit handy in case of emergencies. Include items such as gauze, ice packs, a small container with a lid, and the contact information for your emergency pediatric dentist.

Educate on Dental Hygiene

Take the opportunity to teach your kids why taking care of their teeth is important. Understanding the consequences of poor dental care can motivate them to stick to their dental hygiene practices.

Lead by Example

Children often mimic  their parents’ behavior. Show them how you take care of your teeth by practicing good oral hygiene yourself. It will help instill the importance of dental care from an early age. Go through all the steps in a calm and timely manner. Try not to rush; your child may take this as a sign that oral hygiene is a chore.

By following these ten dental care tips, your kids can enjoy a summer full of laughter and smiles without the worry of dental issues. Remember, preventive care is key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums, so make sure your kids are practicing good oral hygiene all year round.

Contact Woodlawn Kids Dental today for more information on kids oral care and hygiene!