Back-to-School Dental Habits: 7 Healthy Habits for Kids.

It is that time of year again! Between hunting down the exact school books on the school supply list, uniforms, finding shoes that actually fit and bracing ourselves for the return of early morning routines, the back-to-school rush is officially here. But before you tick everything off your list, there is one major thing that usually gets left behind: your children's dental health.

1. Brush Twice a Day

One of the most important dental habits for children is also one of the simplest: brushing their teeth twice a day.

Encourage your child to brush for two minutes in the morning and before bed using fluoride toothpaste. Younger children may need help or supervision to make sure they reach all areas of their mouth.

Try making brushing more enjoyable with a favourite toothbrush, a fun two-minute timer, or a song they enjoy.

2. Make Flossing Part of the Routine

Brushing cleans the surfaces of the teeth, but it doesn't remove everything between them. That’s where flossing comes in.

Help your child develop the habit of cleaning between their teeth once a day. If traditional floss is difficult for them to use, ask your dentist about other options that may be easier for your child.

3. Pack Tooth-Friendly School Snacks

School lunches and snacks can have a big impact on children's teeth.

Whenever possible, choose nutritious snacks that are lower in added sugar, such as: Fresh fruit and vegetables such as Cheese, nuts and low fat yoghurts.

Try to limit frequent sugary snacks and drinks. It’s not only the amount of sugar that matters — how often teeth are exposed to sugar throughout the day can also contribute to tooth decay.

Water is generally the best drink to pack in your child's school bag.

4. Choose Water Over Sugary Drinks

It can be tempting to send children to school with juice, fizzy drinks or other sweetened beverages. However, frequent exposure to sugary drinks can increase the risk of tooth decay.

Encourage your child to drink water throughout the school day. A reusable water bottle can make it easier for them to stay hydrated.

If your child regularly consumes juice or other sweet drinks, consider gradually reducing how often they have them.

5. Don't Forget the Dental Check-Up

The beginning of the school year is a useful reminder to check when your child's next dental appointment is due.

Regular dental visits allow your dentist to monitor your child's teeth and gums, identify potential problems early, and provide personalised advice about brushing, diet and oral hygiene.

If your child hasn't had a dental check-up recently, the new school year can be a great opportunity to get their smile back on track.

6. Protect Teeth During Sports

Many children return to sports and after-school activities when the new school year starts. If your child participates in contact or high-impact sports, ask your dentist about a properly fitted mouth-guard.

A mouth-guard can help protect the teeth and mouth from injuries during sporting activities.

Make sure your child knows that a mouth-guard should be worn whenever their sport or activity calls for one.

7. Keep a Consistent Routine

Perhaps the most important back-to-school dental habit is consistency.

During summer holidays, bedtimes, meals and brushing schedules can become a little less structured. Returning to a regular school-day routine makes it easier for children to remember their dental care.

A simple routine might look like:

Morning: Brush teeth → Eat breakfast → Rinse mouth with water → Head to school

During school: Drink water → Choose tooth-friendly snacks → Follow good oral hygiene habits

Evening: Brush teeth → Floss → No more food or sugary drinks before bed

The goal isn't perfection. It's helping your child build healthy habits that they can maintain throughout the school year.

Here at Best Health clinics we carry out child exams and child hygiene, especially tailored for children, with our friendly team. If you have any further questions and would like to book in for a hygiene or dental check up with us please feel free to Call us on 01708 477 577 or click online to book online.

          -Best Health Clinics