Summertime is soon approaching which presents the following question: Is your smile ready to show-off during the upcoming season?

Your oral hygiene and overall health are important. It’s beneficial that you do not skip brushing before a late bedtime—or let it slide when everyone sleeps in the next morning. Maintaining a healthy smile is an everyday activity. “Don’t forget to wear your healthy smile this summer,” says Tampa dentist Dr. Barrett Tindell at North Pointe Dental. “It’s important for families to enforce brushing and flossing, which keeps that smile white and makes for perfect back-to-school dental visits.”

Keep Your Oral Health Up With Tampa Dentist

Brush often

During the eventful summer months, ensure that your children are brushing twice a day for 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. Simple things like rewarding brushing with a star chart can help your kids stay on track over the summer. Plus, it’s a chance to spend more “family time” time together. Make a habit of brushing with your children for 2 minutes, twice a day for the summer months – this gives you 6 extra hours together. Your Tampa dentist will thank you!

Floss, too!

Don’t forget to floss between those teeth once a day. “Your kids should be flossing between those teeth that touch,” Dr. Tindell says. “Many kids don’t have the advanced motor skills to floss until they are 10 years old.” If your child requires help flossing, try different varieties of interdental flossers or put your hands over theirs to guide them. Skipping the flossing routine can lead to major problems like gum disease for your children as they get older.

Watch out for sugar

As it gets hotter, it’s common for families to snack and rehydrate during outdoor activities, farmers markets or nearly any summer event.

“Watch your family’s intake of sugar from juice and soda,” says Dr. Tindell. “Sugary drinks should only be enjoyed once in a while, and not often.” Offer water instead to beat the heat. Don’t let summertime snacking damage your child’s smile. “Take a break from snacking – it is healthy for your teeth,” says Dr. Tindell. “It allows saliva to bathe the teeth and wash away leftover food.”

If you find yourself spending more time at home this summer, snack smarter, and allow your children to tell you when they’re hungry instead of pushing snacks throughout the day. “Children shouldn’t be afraid to let you know when they want something to eat!” he says.

Schedule periodic cleanings

Some, but not all, schools require back-to-school dental visits for certain grades. These periodic checkups can be a great way to ensure your child’s teeth stayed healthy and cavity free. Avoid the August rush – It is a good idea to make your child’s back-to-school appointment early in the summer to avoid the August rush and help ensure you get the appointment time that works best for you.

“We can help identify and fix those issues, so your child doesn’t have to miss class,” Dr. Tindell says. “Visiting the dentist regularly can help your child’s smile stay healthy all year long.”

Leave it up to dentists you can rely on

Are you seeking a new Tampa Dentist this summer to have a healthy smile this summer? Contact a member of the North Pointe Dental team by calling (813) 961-1727.