Many families are trying to get used to this strange new way of doing things. One big difference that has come about in the last few months is homeschooling. More and more children are participating in distant learning from home as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Out of all of the different subjects that they are learning about, the health of their smile should certainly be one of them. Continue reading for some methods of teaching and resources on oral health for kids.
Fun Experiments
For more hands-on learners out there, experiments and activities may be the best way to go about learning new things. You probably still remember experiments you did in science class when you were young. Here are some that demonstrate the importance of oral health:
- Eggsperiment: This fun activity demonstrates how sugary beverages affect your teeth. You will need two fresh eggs, a can of cola, fluoride mouthwash, vinegar, and clear plastic cups. First, place each egg in a cup. Fill one of the cups with cola and the other one with the fluoride mouth rinse. Allow them to sit overnight. The next day, place the eggs in new containers and fill them both with white vinegar. Lastly, observe the difference!
- Growing Plaque: This experiment demonstrates how sugar fuels the growth of plaque in the mouth. You will need to start with two clear cups. Put two teaspoon of yeast in each one. Next, add one cup of warm (not hot) water into each cup. Add one tablespoon of sugar to just one of the mixtures. Give both cups a stir and you will see a reaction.
- Apple Decay: This activity shows what happens to the teeth when a cavity develops. You will need two apples, two paper bags, a sharp pencil, and a sharp knife. Use your pencil to poke a hole in one of the apples. This represents a break in the tooth’s enamel. Place each apple in a paper bag and wait 24 hours. Take both apples out of their bags and cut them each in half. The punctured apple should appear to have decay while the control apple will appear normal.
Books About Your Teeth
There are plenty of children’s books out there aiming to educate children on their smile and how to keep it healthy. Here are some fun and popular picture books that you could try:
- The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss
- Arthur’s Tooth by Marc Brown
- Just Going to the Dentist by Mercer Mayer
- Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist by Jan and Stan Berenstain
- Bear’s Loose Tooth by Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman
These are just a few fun ways to teach your child about their smile and how important it is to keep it healthy to prevent decay and other oral health issues. Children who get into good oral hygiene habits when they are young are more likely to continue them as they get older.
About the Author
Dr. Jiana Panos is a pediatric dentist serving kids in Naperville, IL. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Illinois at Chicago and has gained over a decade of experience. She is a member of several organizations including the American Dental Association and Chicago Dental Association. Dr. Panos loves working with children and making them feel comfortable while in the office. For more information or to schedule an appointment for your child, visit her website or call (630) 995-3393.