Back to School is here! Are you ready for it?

Back to School means it’s time to restock school supplies, load up on nutritious snacks and lunch foods, and visit the dentist for a cleaning before the first day of class.

If you’re feeling unprepared, we’ve got you covered. Check out our Back to School guide to feel confident when sending  your kids to the classroom.

Back to School checklist

Pack healthy lunches

It’s no secret that what children consume affects their oral and mental well-being, so it’s important to send them to school with food that’s good for their oral and overall health.

The Cleveland Clinic recommends the following choices for a healthy and nutritious lunch:

• Protein: Chicken, cheese, nuts, hummus, yogurt, eggs.
• Grains: Whole-wheat crackers, pita bread, bagels, muffins, wheat or rye bread.
• Fruit: Grapes, berries, apples, bananas, clementines, or dried fruits.
• Veggies: Carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, peas, celery, bell peppers, cooked veggies, or salad.
• Healthy Snacks: Trail mix, healthy cookies, whole grain chips, or avocado slices.

Skip sugary beverages such as juice or soda for lunch, as they can lead to enamel erosion and cavities.

Tip: If you don’t have the resources to provide these items for your children, check with the school office to find out if your child qualifies for a free or reduced-priced lunch.

Schedule a visit to the dentist

Back to School is a great time to schedule your children’s bi-annual dental cleaning. In many cases, you can schedule the appointments months in advance, so mark your calendar to have them seen a couple of weeks before school starts.

Refreshing your children’s oral health tools at home is also important before school. Add purchasing a new toothbrush for your children to your Back to School checklist. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends you change toothbrushes every three months because frayed bristles don’t clean teeth as well. It’s also important to coach your kids on good oral health habits, such as brushing for two minutes and flossing every day. Click here for a complete oral health routine for children.

Want more tips on oral health for children? Check out this blog: Top 5 ways to Take Care of your Children’s Teeth.