Ace Your Next Dental Exam with 4 Back-to-School Tips!

Now that you’re heading back to school to further your education, it won’t be long before you are busy with new assignments, projects, and extracurricular activities. However, being busy doesn’t mean it’s okay to slack off when it comes to your oral hygiene. This could mean bigger problems and more time getting dental work done in the future. Here are some tips to help you pass your next dental exam with flying colors!

Maintain an Excellent Oral Hygiene Routine

The best way to maintain excellent oral health is by sticking to a routine. Try setting reminders for your dental visits so you don’t forget. Try to get into the habit of brushing first thing in the morning and last thing before you go to bed. Keep a container of dental floss nearby too. This way, you can reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Instead of enjoying too many hard candies and other sweets throughout the day, try chewing on sugar-free gum. This helps to rinse away food particles by stimulating saliva production. Keep a pack in your backpack or car so you always have it convenient.

Pack Your Bag with Healthy Snacks

It’s a good idea to switch starchy and sugary snacks for healthy alternatives. Instead of potato chips or crackers, stock up on salted nuts. Other great options include yogurt, baby carrots, apple slices, and string cheese. Avoid sports drinks and sodas. Instead, stick to water or milk. If you’re craving the crispness of a carbonated beverage, try sparkling water.

Get a Custom-Made Mouthguard

Playing sports is an excellent way to get the exercise you need, and it’s fun! However, it puts your smile at risk of injury. To protect your teeth from damage, ask your dentist about a customized mouthguard. This way, you can keep your head in the game without having to worry about damaging your smile.

Avoid Bad Dental Habits

Do you find yourself biting your nails or chewing on pens and pencils? It may seem like a harmless habit, but it can be quite damaging. In addition to introducing more bacteria into your mouth, you could easily end up with a cracked or chipped tooth. Try to do something else instead, like squeezing a stress ball or chewing sugar-free gum.

Establishing a routine can be tricky, especially when your schedule gets hectic. Fortunately, by taking these steps, your dental exam is likely to go smoothly!

About the Author

Dr. Gina Ostrand is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than three decades! She earned her dental doctorate from the Marquette University School of Dentistry. She has pursued continuing education opportunities through the Wisconsin Dental Association, Seattle Study Club, and the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. For more information or to schedule an appointment at her office in Pewaukee, visit her website or call (262) 695-8600.