Moms, we hear you.
The first week back to school can be incredibly hectic. We have last-minute preparations, the frenzy of early morning rush, and the challenge of rewiring ourselves to school drop-offs and pickups.
As the summer holidays come to a close and the school bells start ringing again, let’s take a moment to go over routines that can set our kids up for success.
Start your mornings right.
Brush your child’s teeth to kickstart the day with freshness. Good oral hygiene goes a long way in preventing cavities, bad breath, and gum disease. Check in with your little ones to make sure they’re brushing properly; even older kids may still need supervision. Using the right amount of fluoride toothpaste, have them gently brush their teeth in circular motions for two minutes. Remind them to spit out the toothpaste, not rinse.
Choose healthy lunchbox options.
Packing nutritious lunches or snacks for school is another great way to protect your child’s teeth and overall health. Avoid sugary foods and drinks. Choose whole fruits instead of fruit juices and opt for raw vegetables such as carrots and celeries. Add in nuts, fish, lean proteins, cheese, and whole grains for a balanced diet.
Wear mouthguards when playing sports.
Ask your dentist for custom-made mouthguards if your child plays contact sports such as rugby, basketball, or football. Mouthguards effectively protect your child’s teeth by forming a a barrier that absorbs and disperses the force of any blows or collisions, preventing fractures, chips, or even tooth loss.
Schedule a trip to the dentist.
Don't wait until there's a problem to take your child to the dentist. Schedule regular checkups and cleanings to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Six-monthly visits help identify and address any oral problems before they become painful, costly, or difficult to treat.
As your kids get set for the new school year, remember that a healthy smile begins at home. By making these habits part of your daily routine, you will keep their smiles bright and confident all year long.
