School’s out for summer! June and July are the most exciting months to be a kid, but the changes in habit that occur this time of year can also put their smiles at risk. Before the season really gets started, it’s worth it to schedule a visit to your family dentist in San Antonio. You’ll feel great knowing your little one’s smile is ready to take on anything that comes its way this summer!
Why Summer Spells Trouble for Oral Health
Kids rely on routines — and summer is the season to break out of the one you’ve established during the school year. Bedtimes may be later, snacks are often more frequent, and sleepovers are more common, too. All of these changes can make it easier to forget to brush and floss as normal, placing a child’s teeth at a higher risk of cavities. Combine these factors with the increase in sweet treats like ice cream this time of year and that can spell real trouble! But with a quick preventive appointment during May or June, your dentist can help you and your little one avoid oral health hazards to smile happily and healthily throughout summer and into the new school year.
What to Expect During a Summertime Checkup and Cleaning
When you book a routine appointment this time of year, your dental team will perform the usual steps to get your child’s teeth clean and ready for summer. That includes removing all the plaque and tartar that has had the chance to build up since their last appointment. Then, X-rays will be taken and a thorough examination of each tooth completed. If there are any spots of decay or other issues present, a follow-up appointment will likely be scheduled to get the oral health back on track. If all looks as it should, a quick fluoride treatment will likely be applied to strengthen the tooth enamel and another visit will be scheduled in 6 months.
Keeping a Routine this Summer
Kids are at a special risk of developing cavities between the ages of 6 and 14, while their tooth enamel is still developing and hardening. During this time, cavity prevention is absolutely crucial to keep their smile growing strong. In addition to visiting your dentist in San Antonio before summer kicks off, try these tips to help keep your child on track for excellent oral health.
- Keep a summertime progress chart and set small rewards for routine brushing and flossing.
- Talk to them about the importance of good oral hygiene during the summertime.
- Have everyone get together to brush and floss at the same time — that way no one forgets!
- Pack extra toothbrushes and dental floss for vacation in case these get left behind.
- Always double-check your child’s suitcase before they leave for a sleepover to make sure they have packed a toothbrush.
Summer is exciting — and you want to make sure your child’s smile makes it out alive! To kick things off the right way, make sure you schedule an appointment with your little one’s dentist. Then let them run free and smile big during June and July!
Meet the Practice
The Laith Family Dentistry team offers comprehensive family dental care for patients of all ages — including children. If your little one is in need of a summertime checkup and cleaning, don’t hesitate to contact the office at 210-782-6842 today.
