As summer winds down and families get ready for a new school year, there’s more on the checklist than just pencils, backpacks, and lunchboxes. A healthy smile should be at the top of every parent’s back-to-school prep list! Strong teeth and good oral habits help kids feel confident, stay focused, and avoid unexpected dental problems during the school year.
Here are some simple tips to help your child head back to school with a healthy, happy smile:
1. Schedule a Back-to-School Checkup
The start of a new school year is the perfect time to schedule a dental exam and cleaning. A quick visit with Dr. Ionescu can catch small issues before they become big problems, making sure your child’s smile is ready for picture day and beyond.
2. Swap Sugary Snacks for Smile-Friendly Choices
Lunches and after-school snacks play a big role in oral health. Instead of sticky, sugary treats, pack crunchy fruits and veggies like apples, carrots, or celery. Cheese sticks, yogurt, and nuts are also great options that keep teeth strong and healthy.
3. Replace Toothbrushes at the Start of the Year
A fresh school year deserves a fresh toothbrush! Over time, toothbrush bristles wear down and don’t clean as effectively. Start the year with a new toothbrush (or brush head) and make it fun—let your child pick one in their favorite color or theme.
4. Protect Smiles During Sports
If your child plays fall sports, a custom-fit mouthguard is one of the best investments you can make. It helps protect against broken or knocked-out teeth and keeps their smile safe while they’re out on the field or court.
5. Set a School-Year Routine
Busy school schedules can make it easy to skip brushing and flossing. Help your child stick to a routine by brushing for two minutes in the morning and before bed, and flossing once a day. Consistency is key to keeping cavities away!
Final Thoughts
Heading back to school is exciting—and making oral health part of the checklist ensures your child is ready to learn, laugh, and smile with confidence. A little preparation now can save stress later, keeping their teeth healthy all year long.
Call Dentistry by Design today at 916.685.4662 to schedule your child’s back-to-school checkup and give them the confident smile they deserve this school year!
