Summer break is something most kids spend the better half of a year looking forward to. Two and half months of no schools, adventures with friends, vacations and trips. And while summer is a lot of fun it can also lead to a decrease in brushing and flossing. In this article we want to give families some dental tips on how to make sure your kids keep up with their dental habits during the summer months. If you live in the Southern Maine area and need a dentist for your family, please give us a call to set up an appointment.
Why Do Kids Stop Brushing Their Teeth The Summer
Summer break can unfortunately disrupt your kid’s healthy habits. The key to a healthy habit is consistency. For many kids their brushing habits during the school year revolve around their daily routine. Because school is a constant, the morning routine before school is also a constant. They are likely waking up at the same time, getting dressed, eating breakfast, packing their bag, and brushing their teeth at the same time every day. And they are getting home, doing homework, eating dinner, brushing their teeth, and going to bed around the same time. Summer disrupts this schedule. That is why as parents, it is important to help your kids stay on top of brushing and flossing even when their daily routine is missing.
Use A Dental Calendar To Help Kids Track Their Oral Health
One of the most effective ways to help kids stay on top of their oral habits is to provide a visual representation of them. A calendar that is kept in the bathroom can remind your kids to brush their teeth twice a day. For younger kids, giving them stickers to use to fill out the calendar can make this process really fun. They will be excited to see a full summer month covered in stickers that represent their good dental habits. Even older kids can benefit from a simple calendar that helps them remember to take care of their teeth.
Pack Travel Toothbrushes and Toothpaste For Your Kids
Another part of summer break that can disrupt your child’s dental routines is the impromptu trips and overnight stays. Make sure your kids have access to travel toothbrushes and toothpaste. This is especially important for overnight trips to a friend’s house. While it might be easy to think, missing one day of brushing and flossing won’t matter, in the long run constant disruptions in dental health can make it hard for kids to keep their dental habits long term. Whether you are going away for a week long trip or your kid is just going away for a weekend, you want to make sure they can take care of their teeth.
Schedule A Summer Dental Visit For Your Kids
It is recommended that everyone goes to the dentist two times a year. Scheduling an appointment in the summer means your kids do not need to miss school and it can also help your kids stay on top of their dental habits. If you live in Southern Maine contact us to schedule a regular dental check-up.