Fall is a busy transitional time, making it easy to neglect dental care. Alamo City Smiles is here to help. Our dentist in Leon Valley has provided tips for individuals and students of all ages so that a healthy smile is always in season.
Back-To-School Dental Checklist for Parents
Schedule Dental Checkups
Before the school year gets hectic, ensure your kids have their dental checkups with our dentist in Leon Valley. We can even perform fluoride treatments and apply dental sealants for extra protection.
Stock Up on Dental Supplies
Buy toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash ahead of time. To motivate your kids, consider getting ones with their favorite characters or flavors.
Establish a Morning and Night Routine
Brushing and flossing are non-negotiable parts of morning and evening activities. Use a timer or a fun two-minute song to make brushing time enjoyable for younger kids.
A Leon Valley Dentist’s Tips for College Students
Pack the Essentials
Don’t just keep a set of dental essentials in your dorm room. You can carry a travel-size brush, mouthwash, and floss in your bag for any last-minute trips or quick touch-ups after a meal.
Healthy Snacking
Late-night study sessions often lead to snacking. Opt for healthier choices like:
- Apples: Full of fiber and vitamin C
- Carrots: Full of vitamins A and K1
- Cheese: Full of calcium and phosphorus
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water not only keeps you hydrated but also helps wash away food particles and bacteria that cause tooth decay. Follow the Stanley cup and Hydroflask trends and carry a reusable bottle to drink throughout the day.
Fall Foods: The Good, the Bad, and the In-Between
The Good
Our dentist in Leon Valley has already mentioned why we love apples. We also recommend orange foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkins. They’re full of beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A. Also, beta-carotene has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The Bad
We may love apples, but you should beware of caramel apples. Ditto for other fall-flavored desserts, such as pumpkin spice treats, maple candy, and s’mores. Sugar sticks to teeth and causes cavities if not properly cleaned off. If you indulge, make sure to brush and floss soon after.
The In-Between
Our Leon Valley dentist doesn’t want to deprive you of all autumn indulgences. However, drinks like apple cider or pumpkin spice lattes contain a lot of sugar and can stain teeth. Limit these beverages and always rinse with water afterward. Alamo City Smiles can also eliminate stains with our professional teeth whitening.
Final Tips from Our Dentist in Leon Valley
Stick to Your Routine
Commit now to brush and floss daily, regardless of how busy you get. Set reminders on your phone if necessary. Practice oral hygiene as a family to keep each other accountable and set good examples.
Use a Straw for Staining Beverages
If you can’t resist your favorite seasonal drinks, our Leon Valley dentist recommends using a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. Drinking with a straw helps reduce staining and damage from acidic beverages.
Abandon All-or-Nothing Thinking
Few people are strong enough to avoid all seasonal treats, eat only the purest diet, and follow the strictest possible oral health routine. Instead, find alternatives and practical ways to make dental health and hygiene work for you and your family.
You’ll Have S’more Reasons to Smile This Season
By taking some of these practical steps from Alamo City Smiles, you’ll avoid dental mishaps and emergencies this fall while still enjoying the most beautiful parts of the season. Schedule your visit with our dentist in Leon Valley now.
