Spring is in full swing (sun where are you?) and before we know it summer vacation will be here. Summer is a busy time of activities, travel and more. Making sure your kids continue to take care of their teeth all summer long is important. Summer is also a great time to schedule a routine cleaning. If your child is due for a cleaning, schedule one during the summer months and ensure they head back to school with healthy smiles! Here are some tips for healthy summer teeth!

• Keep up with the routine. Longer nights may have your kiddos off their schedules or staying up late. Make sure the bedtime routine and morning routine still include brushing and flossing!
• Minimize sugary treats. Summer snacks might be full of more treats then the typical school day. Popsicles, ice cream, lemonade and more are full of sugar. While indulging once in a while is completely fine, make sure to brush after eating these treats. Making your own all fruit popsicles can also be a fun way to include your kids in helping make a healthy treat!
• Schedule your cleaning early. Many kids have a back-to-school dental checkup and the few weeks leading up to the first day of school are usually booked up quickly. Make sure you schedule your cleaning early on in the schedule. Summer can be busy with trips, camps and more so having something on the calendar will help you plan around it.
• Pack your toothbrush! Heading out on a vacation or for a sleepover? Make sure your toothbrush and toothpaste make it in the suitcase. If you forget your toothpaste (happens to all of us!) Rinse your mouth out with water and use your clean finger with some toothbrush to brush until you can get yourself to a store for a new toothbrush.