3 Ways to Keep Kids Healthy This Summer

Summer is a time to kick back, especially for kids who are on break from school. But it could be easy for children to neglect their dental hygiene habits when they’re waking up late, playing or lounging all day, and letting go of all responsibilities (do you miss being a kid yet?).

As a parent, you know that good dental care has to last all year long to help maintain a beautiful smile. There are a few ways to keep your kids’ teeth healthy throughout the summer, three of which are listed below.

1. Snack Healthy

Snacks that are commonly enjoyed during the summer could create an acid attack on your kids’ teeth. You certainly don’t want that!

Consider stocking your kitchen with all of the tasty veggies and fruits that the season has to offer so that your kids have healthier options to choose from. Naturally sweet fruits like berries and watermelon are a better choice than ice cream, cookies, and sugary ice pops.

When it comes to staying hydrated, your kids might want to reach for a glass of soda, iced tea, lemonade, or fruit juice, but these can also be acidic and loaded with damaging sugars. Encourage your kids to quench their thirst with pure, refreshing water so that they can take an extra daily step towards keeping their teeth and gums clean and happy.

Heading out for a long trip to a vacation destination? Travel smart by packing healthy snacks like pears, carrots, tomatoes, and sunflower seeds, while avoiding starchy carbs like crackers and chips.

2. Don’t Take a Vacation from Your Dental Care Routine

When your schedule is erratic or you are traveling during the summer, it could be easy to fall off your dental care track, whether you are an adult or a kid. Packing travel-sized toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash might help your entire family stay on course.

If your family stops at a rest area while driving to your destination, consider using that time as an opportunity to brush your teeth at least twice a day so you don’t skip a beat. Or maybe you can use the bathroom at the airport if your flight was delayed. And once you get to your hotel, try to maintain a morning and nighttime brushing and flossing routine that your kids can follow just like they do when they’re at home.

3. Plan for Emergencies (Hey, You Never Know)

Summertime is for swimming, hiking, biking, and loads of other fun activities that will keep your kids active and entertained. But these physical activities may increase the risk of dental injuries and emergencies.

To help keep your kids’ teeth safe, being prepared and taking precautions is key. As an example, you can teach your children to be careful when they’re diving into pools or walking on a slippery deck. An accident could cause them to lose or break a tooth—talk about a ruined summer vacation!

If your child does get hurt, head to a dentist as soon as possible after cleaning the mouth with warm water and applying a cold pack to reduce as much swelling as possible. Gauze can also be used to inhibit or stop bleeding. And if a permanent tooth was knocked out, keep it moist in milk, saliva, or water on the way to the dentist if you are unable to place it back in the mouth. Try to stay calm; we know how scary these emergencies can be, but you got this!

Summer: A Great Time to See a Dentist!

Because the kids are off from school, summer is also a fantastic time to take them to the dentist for their checkup and cleaning. Besides, who wants to deal with a toothache when they’re on vacation, right?

Sticking to a schedule at home, away from home, and at the dentist’s office could help keep your kids’ teeth sparkling and strong. And when September rolls around, they’ll be ready to head back to school with a healthy smile.

Sources:

• https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/kids-oral-care/oral-health-tips-for-summer
• https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/3-tips-for-healthy-summer-smiles
• https://alderwoodfamilydental.com/top-tips-to-keep-your-teeth-healthy-this-summer/
• https://www.1dental.com/blog/2015/06/17/how-to-keep-kids-teeth-healthy-during-summer-vacation/
• https://www.wtvr.com/2016/06/29/summer-dental-health-tips/