It’s that time of year again when the kids are finishing up another school year. Now that summer is approaching you will be filling your calendars with sports, vacations and many other activities. Before you get too overbooked, get your kids scheduled for their dental cleaning and check- ups. Get one more thing off your checklist! You want your kids to have a safe, happy and healthy summer, so why not get their teeth ready for summer too.

One way you can help your kids is to protect the teeth and lips with a sports mouth guard. The athletic guards provide a soft cushion between the teeth for high impact sports. This may also protect the lip from cuts from the teeth. Your kids grow every year and may need a new one to match their changing dentition. They come in many colors and are a great way to show team spirit!

Keeping their mouth cavity and pain free is another way you can help your kids. Teach them about the sugar and acid in soda, lemonade and sports drinks. Fruit, ice cream and popsicles are other favorite treats in the summer. We can teach parents and kids about their effects and how to enjoy them safely.

So, when can they start? Any age over 1 year old is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Starting kids early allows us to take a conservative approach with parent education, creating a safe feeling and positive experience for the child. Many adults have shared with us their horror stories when they were kids. We understand and work hard to create a positive environment for our young patients and adults. We want all people to be comfortable coming to the dentist.

We look forward to seeing your smile this summer!