To kids, summer is a time to play outside, go swimming, and have all kinds of adventures. But even though it’s a carefree time of year, it’s still important for them to take care of their teeth. Here are some simple ways you can keep their teeth safe as they play from dawn to dusk.
- Oral Hygiene: Often times during lazy days of summer children get off their routines of brushing in the morning and evening. For younger children make a chart or checklist of things to do each day and make it fun for them to check off each time they brush. The importance of brushing at least 2 times per day is imperative to maintain a “cavity-free” environment.
- Diving: If you plan on doing any scuba diving this summer, you may experience something called “tooth squeeze,” or pain in the center of the tooth. The changes in air pressure combined with divers biting too hard on the regulators can result in jaw pain, gum issues or tooth pain. Have the whole family’s teeth cleaned and examined prior to any scuba excursions.
- Pool safety: Many summertime dental injuries occur around the pool. Two of the most common causes are slipping and falling, and playing too rough. Talk to your kids to make sure they do not run around the pool or roughhouse in or around it.
- Summer sports: When playing any contact sport—even if it’s just for fun—make sure your kids wear helmets and mouthguards. Mouthguards prevent more than 200,000 dental injuries each year.
