Summer sun brings summer fun! While the warm months are perfect for traveling, summer vacations can also throw off your family’s usual dental routine.  Dr. Joy Lunan shares some helpful tips to prevent tooth decay this sumer:  

Stay on Your Routine 

Whether the kids are staying up to catch fireflies or your family is watching a local fireworks show, try to resist the temptation to skip brushing before a late bedtime — or let it slide when everyone sleeps in the next morning. It’s important for the whole family to consistently brush and floss, which helps keep kids on track for their healthy back-to-school dental visits.

No matter how busy the summer months become, make sure everyone is brushing twice a day for 2 minutes with a fluoridated toothpaste. Simple things like brushing calenders can help your family stay on track this summer. Plus, it’s a great chance to spend time together. Brushing alongside your children for 2 minutes, twice a day for the three months of summer gives you 6 extra hours together!

Don’t forget to have everyone clean between their teeth at least once a day. We should all be flossing between any two teeth that touch. However, many kids don’t have the motor skills to floss until they are about 9 or 10 years old. If your child needs help, you can try different types of interdental cleaners or put your hands over theirs to guide them and get the job done at the same time.  

Say No to Sugary Drinks and Snacks 

As the temperature rises, it’s common for families to sip and snack during sports events, fairs or picnics. Try to keep a close watch on your family’s intake of lemonade, sports drinks and soda. Water is always best as a rule or, milk for a drink at mealtimes. Summertime snacking can also damage your family’s smiles. Try to take a break from snacking - it’s healthy for your teeth. It allows time for our saliva to rinse off the teeth, and wash away any leftover food that may be lingering. 

If your family is spending more time at home, snack smarter and let your children tell you when they’re hungry instead of offering snacks all throughout the day. 

Make Your Back-to-School Dental Visit Early 

Some schools require back to school dental visits for certain grades, and these checkups can be a good way to be sure your family’s teeth stayed healthy over the summer. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Joy Lunan early in the summer to avoid the August rush and help insure you get the appointment time that works best for you. Dr. Lunan can help spot any issues early, so your child doesn’t have to miss any classes upon returning to school. It’s always a good idea to visit Dr. Lunan regularly, of course, so she can help keep your family’s smiles stay healthy all year long.

If you’d lke to schedule an appointment, Dr. Joy Lunan is always accepting new patients. Her dental office is located in the Middlebury, CT area.

203-598-7920    www.middleburydentist.com      Reviews located here.