Creating a Back-to-School Routine that Keeps Kids Smiling Bright

Here in Central Virginia, the bell has rung on back-to-school season. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty of time to ensure that oral hygiene fits in your family’s new routine. Here are some friendly tips and reminders to keep those little smiles bright and healthy all year long.

Pack a Healthy Lunch & Snacks
If you’re able to make a lunch for your kids during the school year — and we know it isn’t easy — here’s a little guidance. First, focus on fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apples, carrots, and celery. These crunchy snacks are not only delicious but also help clean teeth naturally. Swap out sugary drinks for water or white milk, which are better for teeth. If your child loves sweets, go for options including yogurt, applesauce, or even cheese sticks, which are not only tasty but also help strengthen teeth. Remember, foods high in sugar can lead to cavities, so try to limit those sugary treats to special occasions.
 
Brush Up Your Morning & Evening Routines
With the hustle and bustle of school mornings and evenings filled with homework and after-school activities, it’s easy for brushing and flossing to fall by the wayside. We get it (we have school-aged kids, too.) But creating a routine that includes brushing twice a day and flossing once is key to maintaining a healthy smile. Encourage your children to brush their teeth first thing in the morning and right before bedtime. If needed, stand beside them and help them ensure they’re brushing all their teeth and even gums. Make it fun by setting a timer for two minutes or playing their favorite song to brush along with. In the evenings, flossing should be part of the wind-down routine. If you establish these habits early on, they’ll become second nature for your child.

Scheduling Appointments Around School and Activities
School schedules can be busy, and it often takes a few weeks for us to get our lives smoothly revolving around them again. But don’t let that be a reason to skip dental appointments. Regular check-ups are crucial to catching any potential issues early and keeping your child’s teeth in tip-top shape. When planning appointments, consider your child’s school and activity schedule. Early morning or late afternoon slots may work best, allowing your child to miss minimal class time. Remember to book future appointments well in advance to avoid any scheduling conflicts. And if you’re reading this and realize that you booked an appointment during an inopportune time, simply reach out to our staff and we’ll be happy to reschedule you.

Let’s Do This!
By incorporating these healthy habits into your child’s daily routine, and being a bit forward thinking, you’re setting them up for a successful school year and a lifetime of healthy smiles. Remember, we’re here to help with any dental needs and questions you have. Let’s make this school year the best one yet — with smiles all around!
 
Happy Back to School!
Dr. Zima & the Commonwealth Pediatric Dentistry Team

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