From the atmosphere, to the friendly front desk, dental assistant and gentle Dr. Moss (I had jr) my whole experience was great. They took time to make sure my comfort was met and I understood what was going on. 5 out of 5 I recommend!!!
August brings a mix of excitement and preparation. As you and your family shop for supplies and kids squeeze in the last days of summer fun, it’s also the perfect time to get dental =care routines back on track. With school schedules, lunchboxes, and busy mornings ahead, organizing your child’s dental care now can set them up for a healthy, confident smile all year long.
Here’s how to make dental care part of your back-to-school prep.
1. Schedule That Pre-School-Year Dental Visit
If you haven’t already booked a check-up, now’s the time. Your dentist can catch early signs of cavities or gum issues before the academic hustle begins.
Beyond the basics, this is also a chance to ask your dentist about sealants or fluoride treatments. This is especially helpful during cavity-prone years. Knock it out in August, and you won’t be juggling appointments when school gets into full swing.
2. Refresh Their Dental Supplies
New pencils and notebooks aren’t the only things worth replacing. August is a great time to check your child’s toothbrush (or electric brush head), toothpaste, flossers, and mouthwash supply. If their brush looks frayed or is more than three to four months old, it’s time for a new one.
Let your child help pick out fun, age-appropriate dental products. This simple step builds a sense of ownership and makes brushing feel less like a chore. Keep everything in an easy-to-access spot so busy mornings don’t become an excuse to skip brushing.
3. Set Up a School-Day Routine
Sleep schedules can be tricky in August. Start easing into the routine now by setting designated brushing times, before breakfast and after dinner. Once the school bell rings, those habits will already be second nature.
If your child is heading to school for the first time or tends to rush through their routine, try a kid-friendly timer or brushing app to keep them on track. Even a favorite song that lasts two minutes can make brushing more fun and effective.
4. Pack a Smile-Friendly Lunch Plan
Now’s the time to think beyond the sandwich. When planning school lunches and snacks, include options that support dental health, like cheese cubes, apple slices, whole grain crackers, or water instead of juice boxes.
Avoid sticky or sugary snacks that cling to teeth and promote decay. Need something sweet? Add in xylitol gum (if age-appropriate) to help neutralize acids and reduce bacteria between meals.
5. Prepare for Dental Emergencies on the Go
Accidents happen, especially on the playground or during sports. If your child wears a mouthguard, check its fit and condition before sports practices resume. Remember to ask about our custom options at their next appointment.
It’s also a good idea to tuck a small dental care kit into their backpack with a mini brush, travel toothpaste, and floss picks. It’s a small prep that can make a big difference in keeping their smile fresh after lunch.
August is more than back-to-school—it’s back-to-smile. Taking just a little time to organize your child’s dental care now can mean fewer worries and healthier habits as the school year unfolds.
Call Moss Family Dentistry at 540-732-7374 for an appointment in Fredericksburg, VA. You can also request an appointment online.