Doctor Plotka's Blog

12 Jul 2023

Back-to-School Dental Checklist: Preparing for a Healthy Year

As the summer days wind down and the back-to-school season approaches, it's time to start preparing for a healthy and successful academic year. While you're busy shopping for school supplies and new clothes, don't forget to prioritize your dental health as well. Maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing any dental concerns before the school year begins will ensure a bright and confident smile all year long.



To help parents and students get ready, we've put together a comprehensive dental checklist that covers everything from routine check-ups to orthodontic care. Let's dive in!

Schedule Routine Dental Check-Ups:
Start the school year off right by scheduling a routine dental check-up for your child. Regular visits to the dentist play a vital role in maintaining optimal oral health. A professional cleaning will remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Additionally, the dentist will examine your child's teeth and gums, ensuring early detection of any potential dental issues.

Update Oral Hygiene Supplies:
Make sure your child has all the necessary oral hygiene supplies for the school year. Stock up on toothbrushes, toothpaste, and dental floss. Consider getting a toothbrush with soft bristles and a comfortable grip, like the innovative Mouthwatchers toothbrush, which utilizes antimicrobial bristles to eliminate 99.9% of bacteria buildup on the brush. Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and to floss daily to maintain optimal oral health.

Pack a Dental Care Kit:
Prepare a dental care kit that your child can take to school. Include a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss. Having these essentials readily available will encourage your child to maintain good oral hygiene throughout the day, especially after meals or snacks. Remind them of the importance of brushing their teeth and rinsing their mouth after consuming sugary or acidic foods.

Address Orthodontic Concerns:
If your child is undergoing orthodontic treatment or if you suspect they may need braces, now is the time to address any concerns. Schedule a consultation with an orthodontist to assess your child's teeth alignment and bite. Early intervention can help prevent more complex issues down the line. Discuss treatment options, such as traditional braces or clear aligners, and plan accordingly to ensure a comfortable and confident smile.

Maintain a Balanced Diet:
A healthy diet not only benefits overall well-being but also plays a crucial role in dental health. Encourage your child to consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit their intake of sugary snacks and beverages, as they contribute to tooth decay. Instead, opt for healthier alternatives like fresh fruit, yogurt, and nuts. Promote drinking water throughout the day to keep their mouth hydrated and wash away food particles.

Educate on Oral Health Habits:
Take the opportunity to educate your child on good oral health habits. Teach them the proper technique of brushing and flossing, emphasizing the importance of reaching all areas of their mouth. Encourage them to brush their tongue as well, as it harbors bacteria responsible for bad breath. Explain the consequences of neglecting oral hygiene, such as cavities and gum disease, and motivate them to take responsibility for their own dental health.

Stock up on Mouthwatchers products:
Mouthwatchers offers innovative and effective dental care solutions that can make a significant difference in maintaining optimal oral health. Our toothbrushes, in particular, are designed with revolutionary antimicrobial bristles that eliminate 99.9% of bacteria buildup on the brush, providing a clean and hygienic brushing experience. The bristles also reach deep into the crevices between teeth and along the gumline, ensuring a thorough cleaning that helps prevent cavities and gum disease. With a comfortable grip and a range of options for children and adults, Mouthwatchers toothbrushes are a must-have addition to your dental care routine.

A new school year brings exciting opportunities, and it's crucial to start it off with a healthy smile. By following this comprehensive dental checklist, parents and students can ensure optimal oral health throughout the year. Schedule routine check-ups, update oral hygiene supplies, address orthodontic concerns, maintain a balanced diet, and educate your child on oral health habits. Remember, a healthy smile goes hand in hand with a successful academic journey. So, let's give our children the confidence to conquer the world, one smile at a time!

Remember, a healthy smile goes hand in hand with a successful academic journey. So, let's give our children the confidence to conquer the world, one smile at a time!