Holidays can throw even the best routines off track. A bit more sugar than usual, a few too many late nights, brushing that got rushed or skipped altogether (it happens). Going back to school is a natural checkpoint to tighten things back up before those habits settle in for good.
Getting Back Into Good Habits
The basics still matter most: brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and cutting back on sugary snacks and drinks that tend to creep back in during the break. If mornings are chaotic, try building brushing into a routine your kids already have, like right after breakfast or right before shoes go on. Small, consistent habits tend to stick better than big, dramatic changes that fizzle out after a week.
Oral Health in Sport: Time to Sort a Mouthguard
Term time often means sport is back on the calendar too, and that’s where mouthguards come in. A knock to the face during training or a game can lead to chipped or broken teeth, jaw injuries or damage to a tooth’s nerve. A custom-fitted mouthguard provided by your dentist is designed to provide a better fit and may offer greater protection than over-the-counter alternatives. It’s worth organising one before the season starts rather than after an injury.
For more detail, the ADA’s Sports Mouthguards factsheet is a helpful read.
Did You Know? Sports Drinks Aren’t as Harmless as They Seem
Sports drinks often get reached for during training or a big game, but they’re usually high in sugar and quite acidic. That combination can contribute to tooth decay and enamel wear over time. Dehydration can also reduce saliva flow, making it harder for the mouth to naturally protect teeth. For most activities, water remains the recommended choice for staying hydrated.
More on this in the ADA’s Sports Drinks factsheet.
Give Your Child a Healthy Start This School Term
Getting the term off to a strong start doesn’t take much: consistent brushing, a bit more thought around sugar, and a proper mouthguard if sport’s on the agenda. If it’s time for your child’s routine dental visit or a custom mouthguard, The Smile Factory welcomes families from Broadmeadow and the surrounding area.