Back-to-School Dental Checklist: Is Your Smile Ready?

The back-to-school season is full of fresh starts: new classes, new goals, maybe even new clothes. But what about a healthy, confident smile?

For teens, the new school year is the perfect time to make sure their dental health is on point. At Sunshine City Dentistry in St. Pete, we work with families to create healthy habits that support both academic and athletic performance, starting with this back-to-school dental checklist.

Why Dental Visits Matter Before School Starts

Summer snacks and late-night routines often lead to some dental slip-ups (we see you, soda and popcorn!). A professional cleaning helps get rid of plaque buildup and spots potential issues before the school year ramps up.

Back-to-school checkups allow us to:

• Catch cavities early

• Clean around braces or retainers

• Provide custom sports mouthguards

• Reinforce good brushing and flossing habits

Your Back-to-School Smile Checklist

1. Book a Dental Cleaning

   Even teens with great hygiene need a professional cleaning twice a year. We’ll polish away surface stains, remove any tartar, and give them that squeaky-clean feel that boosts confidence.

2. Consider Custom Mouthguards for Sports

   If your teen plays football, soccer, basketball, or any contact sport, a custom mouthguard is a must. Unlike store-bought options, ours are designed to fit comfortably and protect against impact, chipped teeth, and jaw injuries.

3. Support Ortho Care (Braces, Aligners, or Retainers)

Whether your teen has braces or wears a retainer, it’s important to maintain healthy habits:

1. Use a floss threader or water flosser daily

2. Avoid sticky or crunchy foods that can damage brackets

3. Soak removable retainers in a gentle cleaning solution regularly.

4. Snack Smarter

   Help your teen pack lunches that support their smile. Great options include:

   1. Yogurt with fruit

   2. Soft cheese and whole grain crackers

   3. Pre-sliced apples with peanut butter

   4. Hard-boiled eggs

   5. Avoid gummy candy, chewy granola bars, and soda. If your teen has braces, these can damage brackets and increase the risk of cavities.

5. Check for Signs of Grinding

   Teens are under more pressure than ever. If your child wakes up with jaw soreness or complains of headaches, they may be grinding their teeth at night. We can evaluate and fit a protective nightguard if needed.

   
   

Extra Credit: Confidence Boost

Let’s be real, teens are self-conscious. But a healthy smile gives them confidence in photos, presentations, and even just walking into class. Plus, fresh breath and healthy gums never go out of style.

Set the Tone for a Healthy Year

When your teen starts the year with good dental habits, they’re more likely to stay consistent. Setting them up for healthy habits for life is always worth it in the long-run!

Sunshine City Dentistry Is Here for Your Family!

Whether it’s a pre-season mouthguard, a braces-friendly cleaning, or a cavity check, Sunshine City Dentistry in St. Pete is here to help teens head back to school with a smile. Schedule your teen’s back-to-school dental appointment today and we’ll take it from there.