BACK to School Dental, How to Keep Your Kids Gums Healthy
Did you know that 52% of children ages 6 to 8 years have had dental caries in their primary teeth in 2011-2016? If left untreated this can cause early oral health problems for your child. Of course daily brushing and flossing is a must but there are other things you can have your child do to guarantee healthier oral health. Here are our tips and tricks for kids’ back to school oral health.
Why is Oral Hygiene Important for Periodontal Issues?
Periodontal diseases are largely preventable and treatable. The key is good oral hygiene, overall self-care, and regular care from a dental health care provider. Periodontal disease is a broad term for conditions involving inflammation and infection of the tissue that surround and support the teeth. Gingivitis is a type of gum disease that involves inflammation of the gums. It is largely preventable and treatable with a combination of routine oral hygiene and professional cleanings. Periodontitis, which also involves bone loss around teeth, is an irreversible condition that can be slowed down and managed with professional treatment. The mildest form of gum disease is gingivitis, an inflammatory condition where the gums become red, swollen, and may easily bleed. Gingivitis is a reversible condition. But if left untreated, it can lead to a gum disease called periodontitis (About Periodontal (Gum) Disease | Oral Health, 2024).
Establish Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Good oral hygiene is the most crucial step whenever it comes to gum infections, cavities, and tooth loss. Having your child brush and floss twice a day properly will lower their risk. Some brushing tips are to use a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste that contains fluoride while practicing good brushing and flossing motions. On top of brushing and flossing, you should have a regular cleaning and check up appointment set for your child because tartar and plaque can still build up and cause gum problems (Official ADA Dental Health Recommendations | MouthHealthy – Oral Health Information From the ADA, n.d.). Call our clinic today to set up an appointment. Contact us!
Encourage a Healthy Diet
A lot of oral health issues can come from nutrition and our diets so it’s very important to establish and encourage a healthy diet for your children for back to school.
Some healthy food options for your child’s lunchbox might include:
-Nuts
-Yogurt
-Fruits
-Vegetables
-Cheese
-Protein
All of these are not only nutritious and healthy options but will leave you less worried about oral problems.
Some common foods that might cause oral health issues are:
-Sugary drinks
-Chewy or sticky foods
-Desserts
-Acidic food and drinks
While we all love to snack on unhealthy foods, it doesn’t always mean it’s the best or healthiest option. Foods that are high in antioxidants and other nutrients improve immunity and strengthen the body’s bacteria-fighting abilities which can protect the teeth and gums (Oral Health – The Nutrition Source, n.d.).
Managing Habits and Activities
There are certain habits and activities that can make the risk of gum disease and other children’s oral health issues worse. For example thumb-sucking and prolonged pacifier use can impact the alignment of teeth and gum health. It’s important to encourage your children to stop these habits especially during school times where their hands are touching anything and everything they can.
During back to school time kids are more likely to injure themselves playing during recess or PE. It’s important to make your child aware of mouth and gum injuries that can later cause more intense oral problems. In case of an injury, applying an antiseptic lotion or cream and giving your child an ice pop or ice cube to suck can ease the pain, bleeding, and swelling (Official ADA Dental Health Recommendations | MouthHealthy – Oral Health Information From the ADA, n.d.).
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining your kids oral health. Like previously stated brushing and flossing daily is a must but it’s not always enough. Regular dental check-ups bring assurance that your child has healthy oral health and helps prevent any serious problems in the future. You will be able to detect the early signs and get them taken care of most likely the day of. You can visit our website or call us today to get an appointment scheduled. Contact us!
By incorporating these practices, parents can help ensure their children maintain oral health throughout the school year. Emphasizing the importance of oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and addressing harmful habits can set the foundation for lifelong oral health.
For more detailed information, you can contact our team or schedule an appointment with us! Contact us!
Take Action Now
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Ensure your oral health is taken care of. Contact Coastal Periodontics today for expert advice and treatment options.
New Patient Special: Support the Charity of Your Choice
Get a complete exam, X-rays and 3D CT scan all for $295. We’ll create a personalized care plan for the treatment that is best for you, whether the revolutionary Pinhole Technique for gum recession, laser assisted treatment for gum disease, and a variety of implant procedures to replace missing teeth or support dentures. Plus, you’re supporting your community – we’ll donate a portion of your fee goes to the charity of your choice.
