It’s a busy time of year. Book lists! Supplies! New clothes! (How did they outgrow those shoes already?) And while you’re preparing your family’s list of back-to-school necessities, here are a few essential reminders to help your child begin the school year with a healthy smile.
- Review
It never hurts to review the basics before the start of the school year, and that also holds true for dental care! Make sure your child is brushing for two minutes twice a day and using floss or another interdental tool to clean between the teeth. If his toothbrush has been in use since the end of the last school year, it’s probably time to replace it. Bristles are at their best for about three months—after that, they become frayed and worn, and can’t remove plaque as effectively.
- School Supplies for Braces Wearers
If your child is going to school with braces for the first time, send her off with the tools she needs. A travel-sized toothbrush and tube of toothpaste are perfect for a quick brushing after lunch, while dental floss and a threader or dental picks will take care of any after-lunch particles lurking in brackets and wires. Orthodontic wax is a great product to have on hand if a wire or bracket is irritating. If your child uses clear aligners or a retainer, ensure a protective case is always nearby and ready to use whenever the appliance is removed. And it’s a good idea to include the number of your dentist and orthodontist in her contacts in case of an emergency.
- Exams
If your school requires a dental exam before classes start, make your appointment at our Port Washington, NY office now! Regular checkups with the doctor are vital for preventing minor problems from becoming bigger ones, and a professional cleaning will remove the plaque that even careful brushing can miss.
A positive, confident start can set the tone for the academic year, so your homework might include monitoring summer reading, providing required supplies, and ensuring your child is well-rested and ready to go. You can also help your child to a positive, confident start by monitoring brushing habits, providing the necessary tools for appliance-wearers, and ensuring your child is up-to-date with dental exams and cleanings. Because entering the classroom with a beaming, healthy smile—that’s an A+ way to begin the school year!
