3 Summer Oral Hygiene Tips for Kids

Summer is a wonderful time for kids to enjoy outdoor activities, play with friends, and indulge in delicious treats. However, it’s important to remember that good oral hygiene and smile protection should be a priority during these fun-filled months. At Dunwoody Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we believe that establishing healthy oral habits early on can help children maintain a lifetime of beautiful smiles (and avoid potential dental emergencies.) Here are three essential tips to keep your child’s smile in check this summer.

Encourage Healthy Snacking

With the abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables available during summer, it’s the perfect opportunity to introduce your child to healthy snacking options. Opt for tooth-friendly choices like crisp apples, juicy watermelons, and crunchy carrots. These snacks not only provide essential nutrients but also help clean teeth by stimulating saliva production.

Avoid Sugary Drinks

Quenching thirst with sugary drinks like sodas, sports drinks, and fruit juices can be tempting, especially in the summer heat. However, these beverages are often loaded with sugar and can wreak havoc on your child’s dental health. Instead, promote water (and maybe a fun bottle to drink it in) as the primary choice to keep your child hydrated.

Consider a Sports Mouthguard

Summer is a season filled with outdoor activities and sports. If your child participates in contact sports or activities that carry a risk of dental injury, consider getting them a custom-fitted sports mouthguard. A mouthguard reduces the chances of tooth fractures, knocked-out teeth, and other dental emergencies.