As summer approaches, kids are looking forward to their break from school. Vacation often brings a change in people’s activities and diets, so dental care habits should be adjusted as well. Pedodontic Associates, pediatric dentists with offices on Oahu and Maui, recommend a few ways parents can help their kids keep their teeth in top shape this summer.

5 Pediatric Dental Care Tips for Summer Break

1. Don’t Forget to Floss

One of the best things about summer vacation is the opportunity to enjoy leisurely cookouts with friends and family. These occasions often feature foods like ribs, kalua pork, toasted marshmallows, and corn on the cob. It’s particularly important for children to floss after eating these foods to remove sticky marshmallow residue and stringy corn and meat bits from between their teeth.

2. Skip Sugary Drinks

Summer break means increased activity levels for children, so they need to stay hydrated. Instead of having them sip sports drinks, sodas, or fruit juice, pediatric dentists recommend water. Sweetened beverages can promote tooth decay and acidic drinks might cause enamel erosion.

3. Take Safety Measures

Another fun part of the school break is the chance to play sports. If your little one participates in contact sports like football, they should wear a mouthguard. Cyclists and skaters should don helmets to protect their head and teeth. Ensure your kids follow the rules at the pool, such as not running on the slippery deck. These preventative measures will reduce the chance of your child damaging their teeth. 

4. Continue Regular Pediatric Dentist Appointments

Most kids visit a dentist every six months, but it’s easy to put off dental care during vacation when your children don’t have a regular schedule. Prioritize appointments with your children’s dentist to ensure optimal oral health. 

5. Keep a Routine

During the school year, most families follow the same routine on weekdays, such as eating and going to bed at the same time. With changing daylight hours, your kids might forget to brush their teeth or be tempted to skip dental care. Make sure they continue their oral health regimen by brushing after every meal to prevent cavities and gingivitis.

Pedodontic Associates is the leading pediatric dentist in Hawaii and will keep your children’s teeth and gums healthy year round. To schedule an appointment for dental care on Oahu or Maui, call (808) 735-1733 in Honolulu, (808) 487-7933 in Aiea, and (808) 877-0066 in Kahului. Visit their website for more information about their services and follow them on Twitter to stay up to date with their pediatric dentistry offices.