Since the COVID-19 pandemic is still in full swing, it’s likely that your child’s Spring Break will look somewhat different that it has in previous years. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun! There are still plenty of ways to be active, relax, and enjoy the weather safely. As you’re making the most of Spring Break at home, the last thin you need is for your child to come down with a painful or broken tooth. Here are five practical tips to help keep your little one safe from a dental emergency this Spring Break!
Keep Those Pearly Whites Clean
Spring Break is a great time to kick back and relax, but that doesn’t mean your child can slack off on their dental routine! Brushing and flossing every day is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep their teeth strong and their mouth free of bacteria. Whether the family is sleeping in or staying up late into the night, make sure everyone still takes the time to brush and floss.
Drink Plenty of Water
It’s always important to stay hydrated, especially if your child is running around outside playing. Did you know that drinking plenty of water is good for their teeth and gums too? Sipping on water throughout the day washes away lingering food debris, sugar, and cavity-causing particles before they have a chance to cause tooth decay or gum disease. Staying hydrated also encourages saliva production, which plays a key role in delivering enamel-strengthening minerals like fluoride and calcium to the teeth.
Beware of Fruit Juice
While you should make sure your child stays hydrated during Spring Break, be wary of overindulging in fruit juice. Most beverages labeled as “juice” or who claim to contain “real juice” contain just as much sugar as a glass of soda, if not more! Even 100% fruit juice should be enjoyed with caution — after all, most of your child’s favorites are probably full of natural sugars. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting fruit juice intake to four ounces for toddlers between one and three, six ounces for children between three and six, and seven ounces for kids seven and older.
Protect Their Smile During Playtime
You love to watch your child run around, engage in their favorite outside sport, and being active. What you don’t love to think about is how easy it can be for them to chip or knock out a tooth. That’s why your little one should always wear a custom-made mouthguard whenever they play sports, especially baseball and basketball.
Make Time for the Dentist
When was your child’s last dental checkup? They should be visiting their dentist every six months for a routine examination and cleaning to make sure their oral health is on track. Spring Break is a great time to get their checkup out of the way and catch any issues that could potentially become larger problems later.
About the Practice
At Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we always strive to prevent dental emergencies in Nashua and Pelham with gentle and personalized preventive care. However, as parents ourselves, we fully understand that life just happens sometimes. That’s why we’re also ready to handle your child’s dental emergency with the latest dental techniques and technology. If your child experiences a dental emergency over Spring Break, don’t’ hesitate to contact us online or at (603) 880-5002.