The holiday season is always a busy time – especially for families with little ones! With kids out of school and all of the sugary holiday festivities, it’s not unusual for everyday routines to be put on hold . Most of the time this means good oral health routines get put on hold too. Here are some helpful tips for keeping your child’s smiles healthy this holiday season.
Prevention is always better when tooth decay is largely preventable. This starts with a good oral hygiene routine, but also by visiting the dentist regularly. Don’t skip scheduled preventative dental visits during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Plus, Santa likes to see those sparkling smiles! It is also a bonus to have a bright smile for holiday photos.
Diet can also play an important role in cavity formation. Sugary candy, desserts and drinks are hard to avoid this time of year. Try moderating sugar intake and watch out for carbonated drinks which can erode teeth. One way of limiting sugar intake is to buy sugar-free varieties of foods. Checking labels certainly helps! Additionally, since kids are out of school their snacking frequency tends to increase. Try offering healthier snacks such as cheese. Aged cheddar, swiss, mozzarella and monterey jack are a great snack because they clear the mouth of food and neutralize the acids that can attack teeth. Fresh fruits and yogurt also make good snacks for your teeth and body.
Your child’s brushing routine is more important than ever during the holidays. Help your child brush twice a day with toothpaste containing fluoride. The best times to brush are after breakfast and before bedtime. Make sure to use a soft bristled toothbrush, and if your child cannot yet tie their shoes, you’ll need to still help them brush! Flossing at bedtime is important too.
The holiday season is all about making memories and building family traditions. It is also a great time to help your kids establish and maintain healthy dental habits. Teach your children to protect their beautiful smiles for a lifetime!