Have some upcoming vacations planned this summer? Whether it’s a trip to Disney or a trip out of town to Grandma’s, any getaway is bound to take you out of your normal routine. While a break from the daily stresses is always welcomed, there’s one thing you shouldn’t take a vacation from - your oral hygiene.
Make sure you and your family are prepared this season with these travel tooth care tips:
- Pack wisely - Make sure your tooth brush is secured in a travel container that provides enough air circulation. It’s also important to keep that container clean - before, during, and after your trip!
- Let your brush dry - Wet brushes can grow and spread bacteria. When you are done brushing, instead of placing it back in its case be sure to stand it upright so the water can drain off the bristles.
- Stock up on travel sized products - Travel sized versions of mouth wash, floss, toothpaste, and toothbrushes are all available and perfect for keeping in your purse or carry on for on the go use.
- Watch your diet - It’s easy to indulge when on vacation, just try not to go overboard! Watch the amount of sweets and remember to brush and rinse after consumption.
- Schedule a cleaning prior to your trip - Make sure everything is A-OK prior to your vacation by paying us a visit. This way we can make sure there’s nothing that will cause tiny teeth to have any big problems.
For any questions, concerns, or emergencies - we’re here for you and your child. Please feel free to contact us at any of our 3 locations. Call (516) 798-1111 or visit our website to schedule an appointment!
Schools out, and before your kids run off to their summer camps, play dates, or sport games - there are a few things to keep in mind. We always tell our children to be careful - look both ways when crossing the street, wear a helmet when riding a bike, but do you also remind them of ways they can be protecting their teeth?
Protecting your child’s smile is just as important as guarding against skinned knees. See below for some ways your can help keep your child’s teeth healthy and strong these upcoming summer months:
Wear a mouth guard while playing summer sports - According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, about 10-39% of childhood dental injuries are sports related. There’s no need to risk it, any mouth guard is better than NO mouth guard. Before your child’s next game - make sure a mouth guard is included as part of their uniform.
Chew on sugarless gum, not ice! - Yes even though ice is natural, sugar free, and refreshing - it can be risky to your teeth! Munching on hard, frozen cubes can weaken enamel, leading you to crack or even chip your teeth. So leave the ice chomping to the blenders, have your kids pick up sugarless gum instead.
Choose smart tooth snacks - When packing snacks for the beach or even to include in your child’s lunch, opt for ones that are tooth-friendly. Dip a banana in yogurt and freeze for a tasty frozen treat or brew up some refreshing drinks as an alternate to sugary Kool-Aid!
Brush before bedtime - This year round advice hasn’t changed, but in summer months with later curfews and night time Ralph’s Italian Ices runs, it’s important this tip doesn’t slip through the cracks. Make sure your kids brush their teeth before going to bed and only have water to drink after brushing.
These tips plus scheduled dental visits can help your children enjoy this summer with healthy smiles! If you’re looking to schedule your child’s next dental visit, give us a call! We have offices in Nesconset, Massapequa Park, and West Islip and are always available to talk with you and address any concerns.
