On the heels of a grueling school year, and with another school year right around the corner, kids of all ages have earned the right to bask in the delightful glow of summer vacation
It is worth remembering, however, that while your children are doing all this basking, their teeth are at a greater risk than usual of the buildup of the bacteria that lead to plaque, tartar, cavities, and, eventually, tooth decay.
Today we’re looking at how to ensure your kids’ oral health while they’re busy enjoying some well-deserved fun in the sun!
Why Is Summer a High-Risk Time for Children’s Teeth?
Thanks largely to changes in daily routines and dietary habits, summer is an especially risky time for children's teeth.
Whether on vacation with family, at summer camp, picnics, barbecues, pool parties, or just hanging out with friends, many of the activities that kids take part in during the summer lend themselves to neglecting normal oral hygiene practices. This, combined with increased consumption of sugary snacks (like ice cream and popsicles) and beverages heightens the risk of plaque and tartar buildup.
If all that wasn’t enough, increased exposure to the chlorine that keeps the water in swimming pools safe elevates the risks of tooth enamel erosion and increased sensitivity.
Tips for Keeping Your Kids’ Smiles Healthy This Summer
Keeping your children’s teeth healthy throughout the summer can seem like a tall order. Fortunately, we’ve put together a simple three-step strategy to make it more manageable:
- Encourage increased brushing – at least twice a day is a must, but brushing after every sugary snack is preferable.
- Whenever possible, try to swap out snacks and beverages that are high in processed sugars for natural and healthy alternatives like fruit and water.
- Schedule a midsummer dental cleaning and exam to ensure that there are no emerging causes for concern.
Children’s Dentist in Huntsville, AL
If you’re in the Huntsville area and looking for a dentist experienced in ensuring that summer vacation doesn’t deteriorate your youngsters’ teeth, contact dentist Dr. Brian Cook and the Twickenham Family Dentistry team to schedule an appointment!