There are so many things to cram into summer break, especially right before school starts. We wanted to remind you that visiting the dentist needs to be at the top of your priority list! According to the CDC, “cavities are one of the most common chronic childhood diseases in the US.” When cavities are left untreated, not only can they lead to pain and infections, but they can also effect speaking, learning, playing, and eating. Children that have cavities are known to miss more school and receive lower grades. Below are 6 ways you can help equip your children for a healthy start back-to-school.
Schedule a Healthy Mouth Cleaning & Exam
Children need to see a Dentist at least every 6 months for a professional cleaning, fluoride treatment, and exam. These procedures are extremely important in ensuring your child’s optimal oral health. Marion Smile Center’s team of highly educated hygienists will clean your child’s teeth and apply sealants (click here to learn about: Benefits of Dental Sealants) on newly erupted adult teeth to help seal out cavities on their chewing surfaces. They will also go over home care to ensure your child is keeping their smile the healthiest possible year-round. Family and Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Mark Marion, D.M.D., F.A.G.D, will diagnose and treat any teeth issues that your child may be having and can answer any questions you may have.
Replace Toothbrush
At Marion Smile Center, we recommend electric toothbrushes, as they do most of the work for your child. Whether they use an electric or manual toothbrush, you want to replace the soft brush at least every 3 months and after they recover from being sick. Worn out bristles are less effective at removing plaque along the gumline. It’s a perfect time to stock up on toothbrushes or new toothbrush heads for your child’s electric toothbrush while you are back-to-school shopping!
Healthy Snacks
Make packing a lunch and snacks fun for your children. Choose healthier food options such as cheese, grains, raw vegetables, fruit, and yogurt. Try to steer clear of too many starches like pretzels, pasta, or goldfish crackers. When your saliva breaks down starchy foods, it turns it into simple sugars, which can cause cavities if eaten often. Drinking water or no sugar drinks versus high sugar drinks or soda will also help keep cavities at bay.
Mouthguards
If your children are playing a contact sport such as football, soccer, basketball, or hockey, it’s best to be proactive and protect against teeth injuries by investing in a custom-make mouth guard. Dr. Mark Marion makes mouthguards that will precisely fit your child’s teeth and mouth for their protection.
Habits at Home
The key to long-term oral health alongside seeing your Dentist regularly, is healthy homecare habits. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day are crucial to maintaining teeth and gum health. If your child is under 8 years old, it is recommended for an adult to brush their child’s teeth after the children do it themselves before bedtime. Younger children do not have the dexterity to get into those hard-to-reach places. For a more detailed explanation on homecare, check out: Tooth Brushing Tips for Kids.
FREE Back-to-School Goody Bags at Marion Smile Center
We love seeing our little patients and helping them with their oral healthy habits. To make this year a little more fun, if they visit us before school starts, we will give them a free draw string bag with back-to-school goodies! BONUS: Take a photo with your goodies and tag @MarionSmileCenter with #MSCBackToSchool on Facebook or Instagram for your chance to WIN an Electric Toothbrush and Target Gift Card!
To reserve time for your family’s heathy mouth cleanings or to get cavities taken out of your mouth, call our friendly team at 724.452.4300 or click here to reserve a time. To learn more about Family or Pediatric Dentistry in the Zelienople – Harmony, PA area, click here.
