As a student, you’ve likely noticed that summer is ending. There’s thus a good chance that you’re prepping for your Fall semester classes. Still, this process involves more than learning a class schedule or buying textbooks. You’d do well to ace a back-to-school dental exam as well. Luckily enough, your local Temple dentist can help you do so. To that end, here are three crucial tips for passing your next dental checkup with flying colors.
Stick to an Oral Care Routine
Amidst the change from summer vacation to a school schedule, it’s easy to forget oral care. Even so, you should maintain good dental routines as you start the semester.
In particular, you ought to remember the essentials of good oral hygiene. One is to brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes per session. The second, meanwhile, is to floss between your teeth at least once daily. Lastly, rinse with a fluoridated mouthwash often.
If you have trouble getting these habits to stick, find ways to make them easier. For example, you could set phone reminders to brush and floss. Alternatively, you could arrange for parents to reward you for teeth cleaning.
Pack Healthy Snacks & Water
Sugary stuff for school lunches is tempting, but you’re better off without it. Instead, chow down on healthy snacks and water during the day.
If you don’t already know, sugar isn’t good for your smile. It attracts harmful bacteria that cause your tooth enamel to decay. As such, overeating sugary food will cause cavities, gum disease, and worse.
Have mouth-healthy water and snacks if you need a substitute for sweet treats. Crisp fruits and raw veggies – apples, carrots, and celery are good examples – remove plaque from teeth. Plus, fluoridated water will strengthen your enamel.
Get a Mouthguard
Before your back-to-school checkup starts, you may play some school sports. To better protect yourself, then, get a custom mouthguard for your teeth.
Remember, dental injuries are quite common in sports. Baseball, football, and basketball can cause tooth chips, cracks, and knocked-out teeth. Without protection, you’ll likely damage your smile.
Fortunately, a custom mouthguard fixes the problem. This appliance would shield your teeth from falls and player collisions. As a result, you could play your sport without fearing for your grin!
With the tips above, you’re sure to ace your back-to-school dental exam. That being the case, make sure to follow them properly!
About the Author
Dr. Richard Fossum is a dentist based in Temple, TX, having earned his DDS from the University of Texas Dental Branch – Houston. He’s also an outstanding member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. This background has given him a specialty in comprehensive dental work, including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services. Dr. Fossum currently practices at his self-titled clinic and is reachable on his website and by phone at (254)-778-3900.