Backpacks and Lunchboxes: Back to School Teeth Tips
It’s that time of year again…back to school time for the kiddies. Here are a few back to school teeth tips.
Fresh off of a fun summer, it’s the time of year we not only prepare them to expand their minds, but also find out the results of that summer fun on their teeth. Sugary sweets were running rampant and your child’s teeth inevitably become their victims. So how does one keep an eye on the oral health of a little human during this time of year? It takes some smooth talking, but it can be done.
First thing first: It’s time for a check-up. Before they start the school year, it’s a great idea to take some time to visit your dental professional to make sure all of those summer sweets haven’t done a number on those little teeth. No matter the time of year, they will always ask for sweets. Do your best to keep it to a minimum, like during a meal so they have to finish it in one sitting. If they can’t carry it around with them, sugary bacteria won’t have time to cling on to their teeth to cause cavities. Chewing also produces saliva, which is your mouth’s natural superhero against cavity-causing bacteria, so meals is actually a great time to indulge in a sweet treat. Instead of juice or soda, flavor up the water by adding different fruit combinations. Not only will the water taste better, but it may also get everyone into the habit of drinking it more often.
When it comes to the sweet snacks in their lunch, keep the same rule of thumb in mind. They don’t need a bag of candy or other sweets filling their lunchboxes. But if you insist, opt for a singular snack they have to eat at once, like a fun-size candy bar. When it comes to snacks, there are loads of options that not only taste yummy, but also help fight against cavity-causing bacteria. The act of chewing automatically produces saliva production, so handy snacks like popcorn or pretzels are great options when you just want to have something to nosh on. They may not love them the most, but fruits and veggies with high water content, like pears and celery sticks, are also great at keeping their little mouth’s healthy. Protein is also excellent at getting rid of the acids in your mouth so pack turkey sandwiches, cheese & nuts to your heart’s content. There are so many tasty options to divert their attention away from the junk food, at least for a moment. They are still kids!
When you think about it, it all comes down to balance. You don’t want to deprive yourself and your family of the magical food delights, but you also don’t want to deal with a ton of dental bills. So start the school year off right by making sure you are trading some healthy options into your family’s lunchboxes. You CAN have too much of a good thing, so take the time and read the labels. Make sure what you’re giving your child isn’t the world’s worst option. Moderation. Back to school time is always a kid’s least favorite time of year…make it as painless as you possibly can.
If you have questions or concerns about your dental care, make an appointment today with Dr. Farless at 336-282-2868 or visit our website at www.gsodentist.com.
Dr. Farless also proudly serves Greensboro, Brown Summit, Jamestown, High Point, McLeansville, Summerfield and all surrounding areas.