Reports cards have been sent home, desks have been cleaned out, and the school bell has rung for the final time this year! Bring on sleeping in, afternoon naps and family vacations! But just because school is out doesn’t mean that your kids can take a break from oral hygiene. Here are five tips to help them get an A+ in taking care of their teeth this summer!

 

Tip 1: Brush and Floss Regularly

Your kids are probably ready to take full advantage of finally getting to sleep in! Seeing kids roll out of bed mid or late morning seems strange to parents that have been up and going for a few hours by that time!

But while their daily routines might change, make sure they still make time for regular brushing and flossing. Even if they’re going to spend the day chilling out, make sure they brush their teeth once they’ve had breakfast.

Even when school is out, make sure they brush and floss at least twice a day.

 

Tip 2: Avoid Snacking

The three-meals-a-day structure of the school year can change to nibbling and snacking throughout the day.

Snacking throughout the day can be harmful to your mouth and teeth because there will be a steady supply of food particles in your mouth for bacteria to munch on. This causes higher levels of lactic acid in your mouth, which can lead to cavities and gum inflammation.

Try to reduce the amount of snacking your kids do during the day. But if you do find that they’re snacking, make sure to keep the following tip in mind.

 

Tip 3: Drink Lots of Water

Nothing beats an ice cold glass of water on a hot summer day, and especially if you’re outside doing something active.

Be sure to drink lots of water throughout the summer. It will help flush loose food particles from around and between your teeth, but by staying hydrated you’ll also produce more saliva which will continue washing food particles away even when you’re not drinking water.

 

Tip 4: Wear Protection During Sports Events

Amateur baseball is enjoying a surge in popularity because of the recent success of the Blue Jays.

But whether your kids are into organized baseball, a pickup game at the park, playing catch in the back yard or any other types of sports, protect their teeth with a mouth guard. You can get off-the-shelf mouth guards at your local sports store, but for the best protection visit your dentist for a fitted mouth guard.

 

Tip 5: Change Your Toothbrush

Unless you’ve just changed your toothbrush, you should probably change your toothbrush at least once during the summer.

You should change your toothbrush at least once every three months, but more often if you brush aggressively. If the bristles on your toothbrush are bent outwards, it’s time to change your toothbrush.

(And here’s a bonus tip: book a visit to your dentist!)

 

Summer is a happy time for kids and we hope that you and your family have a safe and happy summer, but don’t forget to take good care of your mouth and teeth. Orion Dental offers a full range of dental services for the whole family, and with offices in Milton and Scarborough we’re not too far from home. If you’re looking for a family dentist to help take care of your teeth this summer, call us to book a no-cost consultation and let’s get started!