Protecting Smiles: Dental Health Tips for a Carefree Summer

As the warm weather beckons children to spend more time outdoors, North Carolina dentists are emphasizing the importance of maintaining dental health during the summer months. With changes in routines and increased physical activities, dental care can often be overlooked, leading to potential issues like cavities and dental trauma. This article explores practical strategies to help parents and children prioritize oral hygiene and prevent dental problems throughout the summer season.

Keeping Cavities at Bay: Healthy Snacking for Vibrant Smiles

Embracing Nutritious Choices

The summer months often bring a shift in eating habits, with children indulging in more snacks and sugary treats. However, Dr. Miranda Kalaskey, a dentist in Raleigh and a member of the North Carolina Dental Society, emphasizes the importance of making healthier choices. "Try to pick a healthy summer snack. That can be fruit. That can be vegetables. Just not something dry, not something processed," she advises. The more processed and dried the snack, the more likely it is to stick to teeth, leading to the formation of cavities.

Preventing Tooth Decay

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children in the U.S., with more than half of eight-year-olds having had at least one cavity in their primary teeth. Dr. Kalaskey stresses that left-behind food can be a significant contributor to this issue. "The more processed you have, the more dried it is, the more likely it is to stick to their teeth," she cautions. By encouraging children to choose fresh, nutritious snacks and maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine, parents can help prevent the development of cavities and ensure their children's dental health remains a top priority during the summer months.

Establishing Consistent Routines

Dr. Kalaskey emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent brushing and flossing routine, even as summer schedules change. "Summer oftentimes is going to change that routine, but your brushing, flossing routine does not need a change," she advises. "You still want to do brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day. So, kind of making sure we incorporate that, even though the kids might be waking up at 10 o'clock."

Protecting Teeth from Outdoor Adventures

Addressing Dental Trauma

The warmer weather and increased outdoor activities during the summer months can also lead to a rise in dental trauma cases. Dr. Kalaskey highlights the importance of being prepared for such incidents. "Oftentimes, kids are going and playing basketball, and sometimes high schools are really good about, 'Hey, here's a mouth guard,' or 'You need to get a mouth guard for practice,'" she says. "But during the summer, a lot of times kids will play with other kids, which is great, but making sure they're aware that tooth trauma is a thing."

Seeking Immediate Attention

In the event of a tooth being knocked out, Dr. Kalaskey advises parents to contact their dentist immediately. "If it is after hours, she suggested the ToothSOS app for guidance." Prompt action can be crucial in preserving the tooth and minimizing the risk of long-term complications.

Establishing Dental Visits

Routine dental visits are also essential for maintaining children's oral health during the summer. Dr. Kalaskey recommends that children should be seen by a dentist when they get their first tooth and then every six months afterward. "In addition to keeping teeth healthy, she stressed it also builds a good relationship with dental visits in the long term."By prioritizing preventive care, encouraging healthy snacking habits, and being prepared for potential dental emergencies, parents can help ensure their children's smiles remain vibrant and healthy throughout the carefree days of summer.