One of the most important ways to keep your children cavity-free, especially during the season of sweets, is to see the dentist regularly. And good news: Routine checkups and cleanings are completely covered by most dental plans!

Is the stress of the new school year causing your kid to grind their teeth? If it is, your child isn’t alone. An estimated 15 to 33 percent of children will grind their teeth at some point, compared to roughly 8 percent of adults. The majority of teeth grinding (also called bruxism) will happen after kids have dozed off to dreamland, which can make it tough for them to know it’s happening. Luckily, parents can help by learning how to spot grinding and how to help their kid overcome it.

Morning time can be the most hectic part of the day for families. Before rushing off to school, many kids sit around the table (or stand up at the counter) to fuel up with the most important meal of the day. But one of the most common breakfast options – cereal – can have some unintended consequences for teeth.

Each year, 100 million Americans forego a dental visit, and that’s a big problem when it comes to maintaining a healthy smile. Before your calendar fills up with school activities, athletic events and more, schedule routine dental appointments for your kids and yourself! No matter how good your oral hygiene habits are, a dental visit provides benefits that regular brushing and flossing simply can’t.

August is pool/beach/lake season – which makes it the perfect time to read up on the importance of sun protection. Did you know a particularly important part of your body to protect from the sun is your smile?

The outdoor swimming pool is a hallmark of Minnesota summers, and can be a great way for kids to burn off some energy and beat the heat. If your kids are spending a lot of time at an at-home pool (whether your own or a friend’s) this summer, be sure to protect their teeth with these tips:

It may be tempting to turn the spigot and take a sip while the kids are out playing in the sprinkler or when you’re finishing some yardwork, but drinking hose water isn’t a good idea. Garden hoses have been shown to contain a host of chemicals that can be harmful to both children and adults.

Swimming is a great way to enjoy the summer sun, but how do your teeth feel about it? Learn about the effects that ocean and pool water can have on your smile.

Relishing in the sun isn’t just fun and relaxing – it also provides a healthy dose of vitamin D! That’s good for both your overall health and your oral health – as long as you’re taking the proper precautions to protect your skin (and lips). Don’t forget the sunscreen!