Planning Your Back-To-School Oral Care Kits
A new school year means a new routine. Getting into good oral care habits can set your family up for long-term success.
While the weeks leading up to a new school year can feel like a never-ending to-do list, know that your child's health is the most critical component of starting this new academic calendar. Being prepared for a healthy oral care routine is essential to kick things off strong. By taking the time to schedule their back-to-school dental checkup one month before they start, stocking up on new oral hygiene products, and refreshing their go-to lunches and snacks, your child can head into the new year not only with an organized backpack but with a bright, healthy smile!
Ages 5 to 8
At this age, your child may not have their oral health regimen down quite yet, but don’t panic; that’s normal! A simple solution is to implement fun reminders or games to help remind them to brush, which can be a great way to keep their dental health in check. The American Dental Association recommends brushing to a 2-minute song or rewarding them for brushing by letting them pick a bedtime story. A sticker chart can also be a fun way to keep track.
Their oral care kit should include:
- A brand-new toothbrush—and give them free rein to choose! If they like the toothbrush, they’ll be more likely to use it. Additionally, change toothbrushes with each quarter or season. It’s an easy way to remember when to toss an old toothbrush.
- Mild toothpaste that contains fluoride. Feel free to let them choose a fun flavor.
- Flavored floss or floss holders.