What to Know Before Heading to Campus This Fall
As you gear up for a new school year, don't forget about your family's dental health. A trip to the dentist should be on your back-to-school checklist.
Start the School Year Off Right with a Dental Exam
A routine dental checkup is essential for all children, even if they have no cavities or other problems. The dentist can check for early signs of tooth decay and help prevent future problems. They also can spot oral health problems that may affect your child's overall health, such as gum disease.
Oral hygiene is crucial for children because they are more likely to get cavities than adults. Cavities are caused by bacteria that live in the mouth and form plaque. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth. Removing plaque daily is important because it can lead to tooth decay.
Working Oral Hygiene Into Your Family's Busy Fall Routine
Dental care may seem like one more thing on an already busy list, but it's essential to make it a priority. Here are some tips to help you fit it into your family's fall routine:
- Schedule dental checkups and cleanings for everyone in the family. This is an excellent time to start if you haven't been to the dentist in a while.
- Choose a toothbrush that's the right size for your child's mouth. A too-large brush can irritate gums, and a too-small brush won't clean teeth properly. Be sure to replace toothbrushes every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
- Set a good example by brushing and flossing your own teeth every day.
- Encourage kids to eat healthy foods and limit sugary snacks and drinks. A balanced diet is good for overall health, including oral health.
Tips for College Students
If your child is heading off to college, there are some special considerations for oral health. College students often are busy with classes and studying and may not have time for regular dental checkups. They also may be more likely to snack on sugary foods and drinks and less likely to brush and floss regularly.
Here are some tips to help college students take care of their teeth:
- Schedule a dental checkup and cleaning before heading off to campus. This is an excellent time to get any necessary dental work, such as fillings or crowns.
- If you can't brush after every meal, try to rinse your mouth with water at least. This will help remove food and plaque from your teeth.
- Avoid sugary snacks and drinks. If you do eat or drink something sugary, brush your teeth after.
- Don't smoke. Smoking increases the risk for gum disease and other oral health problems.
Your Trusted New York City Dentist
At Lazare Biomimetic Dentistry and Smile Design, we're here to help you and your family enjoy good oral health. We offer comprehensive dental care for all ages, including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.