All children look forward to summer vacation, but the change in routine can make it difficult for them to keep up with a proper oral care regimen. Also, summertime delights such as lemonade and ice cream can put them at high risk for tooth decay-the single most common chronic childhood disease, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. By following these tips from Crest Healthy Smiles, a national outreach program designed to combat the nation’s oral health epidemic, children can keep their smiles healthy all summer long.
• Play hide and seek…but don’t let soda find its way into your fridge! After playing outside, kids come home thirsty and usually reach for a soda. It’s best to “hide” carbonated beverages, which contain very high levels of acid and dissolve calcium from tooth enamel. Instead, keep low-sugar drinks like natural fruit juice or water on hand so kids will “seek” out a healthier way to quench their thirst.
• Read your child’s way to a healthy smile. Reading with your child is a way to bring the family together during the summer, while learning valuable lessons at the same time. Pick a...