Starting the new school year with a happy smile

Starting a new school year can be easier said than done. With so much to think about, follow the tips below to help children start the school year off strong…

Dentist cartoon

Visit your dentist every 6 months

On average, students miss more than 5 million school hours each year because of dental problems. To avoid children missing school unnecessarily, make sure that they brush and floss daily and visit the dentist for a check up every 6 months. Visiting the dentist regularly can help prevent cavities and reinforce good dental hygiene. For help to find an NHS dentist near you use the below link for NHS choices.

 

https://www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/Dentists/LocationSearch/3

 

 

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 Pack a lunch that will guarantee happy and healthy teeth

 

To make the most of your child’s packed lunch, make sure to limit the number of sugary snacks to prevent cavities forming. Add sweet treats such as apples, strawberries, pears. To make fruit more appetising for little one, try cutting the fruits into fun shapes to make it more fun!

 

Also pack some cheese!

Cheese

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for happy teeth. It provides calcium and disrupts the development of cavities. Wholegrain based bread and snacks are also a great addition. As always, try to encourage children to drink plenty of water, avoiding sugary and fizzy drinks. As an incentive, try encouraging children to choose their own water bottle they like in order to make them more inclined to bring it everywhere they go.

 

 

Brush each morning and night

 Kids brushing cartoon

Its important for children to get into a routine regarding their oral health. Brushing two times per day for two minutes is a must for a happy and healthy mouth. If children need a little push, try a weekly checklist or starchart with a reward at the end of the week for following their routine. Another way of making it fun is by creating a brushtime playlist to sing and dance along to with all the family at brushtime. Oral health is important for everyone but it can be made fun!

 

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