This fall as your student heads back to campus they will likely need a fresh set of supplies to ensure they’re taken care of while they’re away from home. In addition to a fresh set of sheets, plenty of laundry detergent, and some new toiletries and pencils, make sure they’re packing the right gear to protect their teeth and gums, too. Here’s how you can help your college bound kiddo assemble a dorm dental kit and keep their mouth safe away from home.
Pack it Up
Having a basic set of oral health supplies is an excellent way to ensure that your child is protecting their teeth and gums when they’re away from home. Here are a few ideas of what to include:
- 4 toothbrushes or replacement heads for electric toothbrushes (so they can replace them every 3 months).
- Dental floss.
- Toothpaste.
- A water flosser.
- A mouthguard, retainer, or aligners if applicable.
- Retainer soak if applicable.
- A cup to soak aligners or appliances.
Don’t Forget to Study
If your student is attending school out of town, help them locate an emergency dentist to call in an urgent situation. Make sure they accept your dental insurance, take emergency appointments, are in a safe area, and are convenient to campus.
No Excuses
Because college is notorious for all-night study sessions, early classes, and lackadaisical weekends, things like routine oral hygiene can sometimes fall to the wayside. Be sure that your student knows that regardless of their schedule, it’s important to make time for their smile. They should still be brushing twice a day and flossing daily even if they aren’t following the same routine they did in previous months.
Furthermore, be sure to make their dental appointments in advance, such as when they’ll be home for winter or spring break. This way, you’ll be guaranteed a time slot when they’re available and they can maintain their oral health without missing a beat!
Watch Your Diet
College students are notorious for their questionable diets. Whether it’s a steady stream of junk food, nonstop snacking, or breakfast for dinner, there are endless opportunities for cavities to form when they’re the ones making the meal choices. While the good news is that many kids will still make mostly good choices away from home, be sure they know that even the occasional treat can take its toll on their smile, so they should do their best to limit sweets and carbohydrates.
Furthermore, remind them to be cautious about energy drinks. Although they may be helpful for all night study sessions, they are terrible for your teeth.
Use the Right Tools for the Job
Finally, remind your child that their teeth are designed for chewing food, and that’s it. No using them to tear open care packages from home, biting fingernails, chewing on pen caps, or any other use that could cause permanent damage. You can help make this easier by equipping them with their own nail clippers, scissors, and a safety box cutter so there’s no need to resort to using their mouth for these tasks.
Remember, your child’s college years should be fun and rewarding. Give them a bright future and keep their smile safe while they’re away with the help of oral health and hygiene tips!
About Our Practice
At Atrium Family Dental of New Lenox, we want to give your child’s smile a bright future! Whether they need a routine cleaning and exam, have a dental emergency, or would like to learn more about our other treatment options like Invisalign, we’re here to help. To schedule an appointment of any kind, please visit our website or call us today at 815-462-9990.