Each school year is exciting for kids, as they reunite with their friends and catch up on their summer adventures. However, preparing for the new school year goes far beyond shopping for new clothes and supplies. This is also an excellent time to establish oral hygiene habits, so your child has a beautiful, healthy smile that boosts their confidence. With this in mind, below are a few dentist-approved oral care tips.

4 Dentist-Approved Tips for a Healthy Mouth

1. Pick Out a New Toothbrush

When you go back-to-school shopping for pens and backpacks, don’t forget to browse the oral health aisle. Let your child pick out a brand new toothbrush to kick start the school year. With so many colors and cartoon options to choose from, picking out a toothbrush that matches their notebooks and folders can generate excitement about oral care. 

2. Establish a Brushing & Flossing Routine

Establish a routine as a family for brushing and flossing every morning before school and before bedtime. By doing this activity as a family, your children won’t skip a session. Try incorporating music or dancing into the regimen so everyone looks forward to dental care. 

3. Pack Healthy Snacks

To promote a healthy mouth, stick to fresh snacks that are low in sugar and acidity, which can cause tooth decay. Cheese cubes and yogurt are an excellent source of calcium, which strengthens teeth. Sliced apples, celery, and carrot sticks are also excellent choices, as they’re nutrient-rich and the fibrous texture helps scrub teeth and wash away mouth bacteria naturally. To stay hydrated, pack plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks like juice and soda.

4. Schedule a Teeth Cleaning Appointment

Most importantly, schedule a dentist appointment every six months. This preventative care step is the perfect opportunity to check on your child’s overall oral health and to tackle any issues like cavities so they develop excellent habits that last a lifetime. 

If your child is due for a teeth cleaning, Tris J Carta DMD, MAGD provides top-notch care in a welcoming environment. Conveniently located in Manchester, CT, this general dentist has provided exemplary service to residents across Hartford County since 1999. Call (860) 646-2251 to schedule an appointment and visit his website to learn more about his approach to preventative care.