Spring has sprung and the sun is shining, which can mean only one thing – Easter is just around the corner! Although this holiday can be a challenging time for our young ones’ teeth, it doesn’t have to cause cavities, so we’ve put together the top five helpful tips and tricks to keep your child’s oral health safe throughout Easter and beyond.
Tip no.1: Don’t let them graze on sweets throughout the day!
When we eat or drink, our mouth’s pH becomes acidic, which is part of your body’s natural digestion process and happens as bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugars and starches left on and between your teeth. This acid can cause the tooth enamel to weaken and can eventually lead to cavities and tooth decay. Snacking or grazing continuously throughout the day means that your mouth’s pH level remains consistently and harmfully acidic.
One of the best ways to reduce harmful acid levels on your child’s enamel is to limit snacking between meals. This means the optimal time to let your child crack open those eggs is during lunch or dinner!
Tip no.2: Why not try a sugar-free option?
Sugar-free options are tooth-friendly options and are readily available in most local Harlow food shops. Even dark chocolate is a great alternative to milk chocolate eggs as it generally contains less sugar and is packed full of antioxidants. By reducing your child’s sugar intake, you’re also reducing harmful bacterial growth, which could create even greater problems for your child’s oral health.
Tip no.3: Switch things up with something less traditional…
If you’re concerned about the effects of sugar on your child’s teeth and gums, why not ditch the sweet treats altogether! There are many alternative activities that your family can partake in this Easter that also protects their smiles. Why not try a scavenger hunt, arts and crafts or even a good old-fashioned sack-race! Check out more ideas here.
Tip no.4: Get them brushing!
If your child isn’t into the habit of brushing for two minutes, twice a day, then getting them started in this routine is going to have a greatly beneficial effect on their teeth and gums. Making sure your child’s teeth are brushed thoroughly will reduce the effects of sugar on their teeth and greatly reduce the chance of cavities forming.
Tip no. 5: Visit Lister House Dental for regular dental hygiene appointments and check-ups in Essex
The best tip we can give to keep your child’s smile bright and healthy for longer, is to ensure they are seeing their Lister House dentist in Harlow regularly for check-ups and hygiene appointments. Our family-friendly practice is more than happy to see little patients and are experts in turning frowns upside down in the dental chair…especially for our more nervous patients!