Five children stand indoors with arms around each other, smiling at the camera. They are dressed in casual, colorful clothing. The background shows a bright, open space.

Top 5 Tips for Keeping Kids’ Teeth Healthy During the School Year

/in /by

As children head back to school, routines shift—early mornings, packed lunches, and busy after-school activities can make it easy to overlook dental care. But maintaining healthy habits during the school year is key to preventing cavities and supporting your child’s overall well-being. At Cochran, Soares, and Associates Pediatric Dentistry, we want to help families across Jacksonville and St. Johns keep those smiles strong from August through summer break.

1. Establish a Strong Morning and Evening Routine

School mornings can be hectic, but brushing should never be skipped. Make tooth brushing a non-negotiable part of the morning routine, just like putting on shoes or grabbing a backpack. At night, brushing before bed is just as important—especially after a day of snacking, sipping juice, or eating school lunch. Children should brush twice a day for two full minutes using fluoride toothpaste. Younger kids may need supervision or help until they’ve mastered proper brushing technique.

2. Pack Tooth-Friendly Lunches and Snacks

What your child eats during the school day plays a big role in their oral health. Frequent exposure to sugary foods or sticky snacks like fruit snacks, granola bars, or candy increases the risk of cavities. Instead, choose whole fruits, cheese sticks, yogurt, and crunchy vegetables like carrots or celery. Encourage water over juice or soda to keep teeth clean between meals. If your child’s school allows it, send a reusable water bottle filled with fluoridated tap water to support enamel strength throughout the day.

3. Don’t Skip Routine Dental Checkups

The school year fills up quickly with assignments and activities, but don’t let that delay your child’s dental appointments. Regular checkups—typically every six months—allow us to catch problems early and reinforce positive habits. Our Jacksonville and St. Johns locations offer flexible scheduling to fit your family’s calendar. These visits also include cleanings, fluoride treatments, and exams that help your child stay cavity-free during the busy school year.

4. Protect Teeth During Sports and Recess

If your child plays contact sports like football, soccer, or basketball, a custom-fitted mouthguard can prevent injuries to the teeth and mouth. Even during casual playground games, slips and falls can lead to chipped or broken teeth. At Cochran, Soares, and Associates, we offer athletic mouthguards designed specifically for kids to provide the best protection while still being comfortable to wear.

5. Be a Role Model for Good Habits

Children are more likely to adopt healthy routines when they see their parents doing the same. Brush and floss together when possible, and talk about the importance of taking care of your teeth. Celebrate dental milestones, like a no-cavity checkup, and use positive reinforcement to make oral care something your child takes pride in.

Keep Smiles Bright All Year Long

With a little planning and consistency, it’s easy to keep your child’s smile healthy throughout the school year. From nutritious lunches to regular checkups, every small step supports a lifetime of strong teeth and healthy habits. At Cochran, Soares, and Associates Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to help you along the way. If your child is due for a visit or you have questions about their dental health, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our Jacksonville or St. Johns office.

A child lies in a dental chair while a dentist applies fluoride treatment to their teeth using a small brush.

Fluoride Treatments for Kids: Safe, Effective, and Recommended

/in /by

Fluoride is a powerful tool in protecting children’s teeth against cavities, and professional fluoride treatments are a trusted part of pediatric dental care. At Cochran, Soares, and Associates Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend fluoride treatments as a safe and effective way to strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of tooth decay in growing smiles.

What Is Fluoride and How Does It Work?

Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, soil, and certain foods. When applied to teeth, it helps rebuild weakened enamel and makes it more resistant to acid attacks from plaque and sugars. This process—called remineralization—can even reverse the earliest stages of tooth decay before a cavity forms.

For children, whose enamel is still developing, fluoride plays a particularly important role. It strengthens the teeth from the inside out and helps protect both baby and permanent teeth during their most vulnerable years.

Are Fluoride Treatments Safe for Children?

Yes—fluoride treatments provided by a pediatric dentist are safe and beneficial when used appropriately. The American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry all endorse the use of fluoride for cavity prevention. During a professional treatment, a small amount of fluoride is applied to the teeth in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish. The process is quick, painless, and requires no special preparation.

At Cochran, Soares, and Associates, we tailor fluoride recommendations to each child’s risk level, age, and oral health needs. Children with a history of cavities, deep grooves in their teeth, or limited access to fluoridated tap water may benefit the most from regular fluoride applications.

When Should Kids Start Getting Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride treatments can begin as early as the toddler years, often during the first few routine dental visits. For most children, treatments are applied every six months during regular checkups. In higher-risk cases, your pediatric dentist may recommend more frequent applications or prescribe supplemental fluoride.

Even babies can benefit from fluoride when their teeth first erupt. As long as a child is brushing with a small smear (or pea-sized amount) of fluoride toothpaste, and receiving appropriate in-office treatments, their teeth will have a strong defense against decay.

At-Home Fluoride Use

Along with professional treatments, daily use of fluoride toothpaste is essential. Children under age three should use just a tiny smear, while older kids can use a pea-sized amount. Make sure they don’t swallow the toothpaste, and supervise brushing until they’re old enough to do it properly.

If your family uses well water or bottled water, ask your pediatric dentist whether supplemental fluoride might be helpful. In some cases, prescription rinses or tablets may be recommended based on your child’s risk level and overall dental health.

A Proven Step Toward Cavity Prevention

Fluoride is one of the simplest, safest, and most effective ways to reduce your child’s risk of cavities. When paired with regular brushing, healthy snacks, and routine dental care, fluoride helps keep teeth strong and smiles healthy for years to come.

To learn more about fluoride treatments for your child, or to schedule a checkup at our Jacksonville or St. Johns location, contact Cochran, Soares, and Associates Pediatric Dentistry today. We’re here to help your child grow up with a confident, cavity-free smile.