4 Tips to Ace Your Dental Exam During Back-to-School Season

Now that it’s back-to-school season, your schedule probably feels hectic enough with having to buy books and school supplies. However, you’ll still want to keep up with your oral health, especially if you have a dental exam coming up. But what can you do to ensure that you ace your next appointment with flying colors? Read on to learn five essential tips!

#1: Always Brush Before Bedtime

Whether you had a long day full of classes or studied in the library for hours, you may be tempted to simply flop on your bed and fall asleep. This is only fine as long as you clean your teeth beforehand! By thoroughly brushing and flossing your smile, you’ll effectively remove any debris and food particles that accumulated throughout the day, reducing your risk of bacteria and plaque buildup.

#2: Pack a To-Go Dental Hygiene Kit

Even if you won’t be home most of the day due to school or work, it doesn’t mean you can’t maintain good oral hygiene while you’re out. To make this process easier for you when you’re on the go, you should consider bringing a travel-sized dental care kit wherever you go. This pack should consist of a small toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and floss. You might even include gauze, ibuprofen, and any other essentials that can help in the case of a dental emergency.

#3: Stock Your Fridge & Pantry with Healthy Snacks

Eating the right kind of snacks throughout the day is important to both fuel your body and promote good oral health. Most of us know that sugary treats can be detrimental to your teeth, as they can encourage bacteria growth that can weaken your enamel. You’ll also want to avoid foods that are high in carbohydrates and starches, such as chips and pretzels, which are just as harmful as sugar. Instead, stick with more nutritious options like cooked veggies, fresh fruit, and hard-boiled eggs to preserve a strong and healthy smile!

#4: Avoid Poor Dental Habits

Do you like to chew on a pencil when doing homework or taking a test? Do you often bite your fingernails when you’re nervous? While these tendencies may seem harmless at first, they can cause damage to your teeth over time. To avoid any dental complications in the future, try relieving stress through deep breathing meditations, taking occasional breaks, or exercising.

While heading back to school can sometimes feel overwhelming, it doesn’t mean you’ll have to fall off track with your oral health. Practice these few tips, and you can be sure to ace your next dental exam with no problems!

About the Author

Dr. Henry Lu is a member of both the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. He earned his dental doctorate from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine and regularly seeks continuing education to expand his expertise. He offers numerous advanced and essential treatments, including dental checkups/cleanings, periodontal therapy, and emergency dentistry. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call him at 469-998-9822.