Summer break brings a welcome change of pace for families—longer days, relaxed schedules, and a break from the school-year routine. However, these changes can inadvertently impact children’s dental health.
Without the structure of school-day routines, oral hygiene habits may become inconsistent, and summer treats can pose additional challenges for young smiles. Here’s how to keep your kids’ teeth healthy while still enjoying all the fun that summer has to offer.
During the school year, most families follow fairly consistent routines—regular mealtimes, structured snack breaks, and established morning and evening rituals that include brushing and flossing. Summer often disrupts these patterns with:
Even with varying summer schedules, you can help your children maintain good oral health with these practical strategies:
Create a visual reminder system. For younger children, a colorful chart with morning and evening toothbrushing check-offs can help maintain consistency even when bedtimes shift.
Pack a “smile kit” for outings. Include travel-sized toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss picks for day trips, sleepovers, and vacations.
Set a timer or play a favorite song. Make sure brushing lasts the recommended two minutes with these fun timing methods that work regardless of schedule changes.
Lead by example. Let your children see you maintaining your own oral hygiene routines despite the relaxed summer schedule.
Summer and sweet treats often go hand-in-hand, but you don’t need to eliminate all the fun to protect teeth:
Timing matters. If your children are going to enjoy sugary treats, offer them with meals rather than as separate snacks. Increased saliva production during meals helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles.
Choose tooth-friendly alternatives. Fresh fruits, cheese sticks, yogurt, and nuts provide satisfying snacks without the sugar impact of many processed options.
Watch out for “sipping hazards.” Frequently sipping on sugary or acidic beverages throughout the day creates constant acid attacks on tooth enamel. Encourage water as the primary beverage, especially between meals.
Consider xylitol. Look for treats sweetened with xylitol, which research suggests may actually help prevent cavities.
At Scott A. Babin, DDS & Associates, we encourage families to schedule children’s dental checkups during summer break for several reasons:
Convenience: No need to worry about missing school or fitting appointments into already busy weekday schedules.
Addressing issues early: If treatment is needed, summer provides time to address problems before the new school year begins.
Starting the school year right: A professional cleaning and checkup in summer ensures your child begins the academic year with optimal oral health.
Active summer play often brings increased risk of dental injuries. Consider these precautions:
Custom-fitted mouthguards: Essential for children participating in baseball, basketball, skateboarding, and other activities with potential for face or mouth impact.
Swimming precautions: Extended exposure to poorly maintained pool water (with improper pH levels) can actually damage tooth enamel. Encourage children to swim with their mouths closed when possible.
Stay hydrated with water: Proper hydration supports healthy saliva production—nature’s cavity fighter.
Remember, establishing good dental habits during childhood creates a foundation for lifelong oral health. By maintaining consistent care during the summer months, you’re helping your children develop valuable health routines that will benefit them well beyond vacation season.
Summer is flying by, and our appointment calendar is filling quickly. Contact Scott A. Babin, DDS & Associates today at either 425-243-0843 (Edmonds) or 425-242-3235 (Renton) to schedule your children’s summer dental visits. You can also make appointments online if you prefer.
