Ask anyone, and they’ll say Christmas is one of the best times of year – citing presents, delicious food and family entertainment. But it’s also a time when we might be tempted to indulge in the sweet stuff a little more than usual. Especially sweet-toothed kids and their filled Santa stockings. As a dentist in Lancaster, we’ll help keep smiles bright all through the year. Here are some of our top tips for doing just that – and some details for how to give us a call if you need us.

 1. Get into a good oral health routine

It sounds easy – because it is! Even the most tricky kids can be encouraged to brush and floss twice a day (for two minutes each time) through a little incentive. For the very young, a sticker chart or brightly-coloured toothbrush is often all it takes. Primary-aged children might engage better by brushing to music or pretending to brush their toys’ teeth. And teenagers will do almost anything for pocket money!

2. Don’t neglect dental check-ups

Christmas is a busy time of year – and that’s the case for our dentists in Lancaster, as well as hard-working, juggling parents. But one appointment you shouldn’t cancel among the last-minute dash to the shops and endless school plays is your child’s dental appointment. That’s because our dentists can help to clean and care for your child’s smile, as well as spot any problems like decay or sensitivity.

 3. Watch what they’re eating (and drinking)

When Christmas rolls around, we’re easily tempted by sugary snacks and sweet drinks, be it fizzy pop, hot chocolate, selection boxes or the classic tin of Quality Street. But kids aren’t known for their willpower and can find it difficult to turn down a treat. That’s why it’s up to parents to keep an eye on what they’re consuming over the holiday period and to ensure they’re not over-indulging in mince pies and candy canes. On a related note, some Christmas foods we enjoy (nuts, candies and harder foods) can wreak havoc on our smiles, leading to cracks and chips. So it’s good to be aware of this, too.

And remember…

Your dentist is always here to help with any concern you have about our child’s smile or general oral health. So whether it’s advice on the best toothbrush, toothpaste or mouthwash to try on your child’s smile, a quick check-up at our Lancaster dental practice, or a concern like decay or tooth troubles, get in touch with our professional dentists today.