As the sun shines brighter and days grow longer, you and your family are probably gearing up for some summer fun. While vacations, outdoor activities, and sweet treats may be at the top of your mind, it’s crucial not to let oral health take a back seat. This summer, make dental care a family affair with these simple yet effective family oral care habits that will keep everyone’s smiles bright and healthy.
1. Stick to Your Routine, Even on Vacation
Summer often means travel and a break from the usual schedule. However, oral health doesn’t take a vacation. Encourage your family to maintain their twice-daily brushing and flossing routine, even when away from home. Pack travel-sized toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss for everyone. Make it fun by letting kids choose their own colorful travel kits.
2. Stay Hydrated with Water
With the heat of summer comes the need for increased hydration. Choose water over sugary drinks to quench your thirst. Not only does water keep the body hydrated, but it also helps rinse away food particles and bacteria from teeth. Consider getting reusable water bottles for each family member and make a game out of tracking daily water intake.
3. Snack Healthy
Summer often brings a bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Take advantage of this by incorporating tooth-friendly snacks into your family’s diet. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery act as natural toothbrushes, scrubbing away plaque as you eat. Cheese and yogurt are also great options, providing calcium to strengthen teeth.
4. Protect Those Pearly Whites During Sports
Summer sports and outdoor activities are fantastic for family bonding, but they can pose risks to dental health. Ensure everyone wears proper protective gear, including mouthguards, during contact sports or activities with a risk of facial injury. You can visit our practice for a customized mouthguard with durable and long-lasting protection.
5. Make Brushing Fun
Turn tooth brushing into a family event. Play a two-minute song and have a dance party while brushing, or use a brushing app that makes oral care into a game. For younger children, let them “brush” their stuffed animals’ teeth alongside their own.
6. Schedule a Family Dental Check-up
Summer can be an ideal time to schedule dental check-ups for the whole family. With more flexible schedules, finding a time that works for everyone is easier. Regular check-ups can catch potential issues early and ensure everyone’s oral health is on track.
7. Be Prepared for Dental Emergencies
Whether you’re at home or traveling, be prepared for potential dental emergencies. Put together a small dental first aid kit with items like temporary filling material, dental wax, and the contact information for your family dentist. Make sure to have a checkup with our practice before you go. It will ensure your smile is in top shape for your vacation!
8. Limit Sugary Treats
Ice cream, popsicles, and other sweet summer treats are hard to resist, but they can wreak havoc on teeth. Instead of banning them entirely, set guidelines for when and how often these treats can be enjoyed. Follow up sweet snacks with water to rinse away sugar, and consider sugar-free alternatives when possible.
9. Lead by Example
Remember, children often mimic their parents’ behaviors. Make oral care a priority for yourself, and your kids are more likely to follow suit. Let them see you brushing, flossing, and making healthy choices for your teeth.
# 10. Make It a Family Challenge
Create a summer-long family challenge centered around oral health. Use a chart to track daily brushing and flossing, with rewards for consistent care. This can create positive reinforcement and turn good oral hygiene into a habit.
By incorporating these family oral care habits into your summer routine, you’ll ensure that everyone’s smiles remain as bright as the summer sun. Remember, good oral health is a key component of overall wellness, and summer is the perfect time to establish lifelong healthy habits.
Want to schedule a checkup? Call Keene Smiles today at 720-599-4479 to schedule an appointment in Lafayette, CO. You can also request an appointment online.
