The uniforms are ironed, the new copies are covered and the school run is back in full swing. Now that everyone is settling into the new routine, it’s a good time to think about your child’s teeth too. A few small habits over the school year can make a real difference.

Book a check-up early in the term
If your child hasn’t been seen in the last six months, autumn is a great time for a visit. We can spot small problems before they turn into toothache, and it means fewer surprises (and fewer missed school days) later in the year. Many parents like to book around mid-term break so there’s no clash with school.

Rethink the lunchbox
Cereal bars, fruit juices and dried fruit are often sold as healthy options, but they can be surprisingly hard on teeth. Some simple swaps that help:

Water or milk instead of juice or squash
Cheese, crackers, plain yoghurt or chopped veg as snacks
Fresh fruit rather than dried fruit or fruit bars
Keep sweet treats to mealtimes rather than grazing through the day

It’s not about banning treats. It’s how often teeth are exposed to sugar that matters most.

Get the brushing routine back on track
Summer can loosen the routine for all of us. Brush twice a day for two minutes, last thing at night and just before you leave for school. For children aged two to seven, a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is enough, and younger children will need a hand from a grown-up. Encourage them to spit out, not rinse, so the fluoride keeps working.

Protect those teeth on the pitch
Whether it’s rugby, hockey, GAA or camogie, a mouthguard is one of the best ways to prevent a broken or knocked-out tooth. Shop-bought guards are better than nothing, but a custom-fitted mouthguard from your dentist is more comfortable, so children are more likely to actually wear it. If your child has braces, talk to us about the right option.

Know what to do in a dental emergency
If an adult tooth is knocked out, pick it up by the crown (not the root), place it gently in milk. Then call us straight away. Time really matters.

We’re here to help
If you’d like to book a check-up, ask about a sports mouthguard or have any questions about your child’s teeth, give the team at Deansgrange Dental Clinic a call. Here’s to a healthy, happy school year!