As fall approaches, many of our patients are preparing to set off for their first year of college or university. While this is an extremely exciting time, it is also a time of great change. Today, these 18-year-olds might still get a gentle reminder to brush and floss before bed each night, but come September, their dental health will fall completely into their hands. With new and uncertain stresses like papers, tests, laundry, meal-prepping and socializing, it is common that oral health falls through the cracks and is no longer high on the priority list. While this may be common the Blackburn Shoppes Dental team is here to provide you with helpful dental tips for college students so that it does not have to become YOUR reality.
Our Top 7 Dental Tips for College Students
Review Dental Insurance Policies
Now that you are a true adult in many senses, it is time to take your dental health into your own hands. Many postsecondary institutions offer comprehensive dental insurance plans that are affordable, and often included in fees, for students. The only problem? Most students don’t take the time to educate themselves on the perks available to them, and consequently, essentially pay for services they don’t use! For example, Carleton University, UOttawa and Algonquin College all of dental packages available to students. Rest assured that no matter which postsecondary institution you decide to attend, your dental health will be supported. Do yourself a huge favour and look into the dental insurance policies in place at your school. You will be pleasantly surprised!
Find a Local Dentist
If you attend postsecondary away from home, it is a great idea to look into finding a local dentist in your new city or town. Having a dentist close by makes it much more convenient to get to your regular dental checkups. If a dental emergencies were to happen, you would be able to go right to your local dentist for immediate assistance. At the end of the day, having a dentist close by gives you peace of mind when it comes to dental care.
Limit Your Sugar Intake
Steer clear from ‘the freshman fifteen’ and other college stereotypes by limiting your poor diet choices, especially your sugar intake. Unfortunately, postsecondary students tend to consume an alarmingly high amount of sugar from alcohol, late-night snacks and sugary drinks. These diet choices alone can lead to an average of 15 pounds of weight gain in a year. We all understand that sugar causes cavities and tooth decay, so it is clear that sugar is best consumed in moderation. And as young adults, it is important to become more aware of how much sugar you actually consume. Alcoholic drinks and pop are especially high in sugar and are consumed many times throughout the week. The best way to eliminate sugar? Choose drinks that are sugar-free like sparkling water!
Stay Hydrated
Though staying hydrated is not a new solution by any means, it is a tested and true way to promote your dental and overall health. On an oral health level, drinking enough water each day washes away food residue and bacteria Less bacteria means less cavities and dry mouth (which leads to bad breath). Hydrating more frequently increases your ability to focus better and for longer, which will ultimately make you a better student. Lastly, because we know college students will appreciate this fact, drinking more water helps return you back to normal after a hard night out.
Maintain Regular Brushing & Flossing Routine
Postsecondary students are busy – we get it! Between school work and socialization alone, there isn’t much time left for anything outside of a daily routine. Our team thinks it’s important to incorporate your regular brushing and flossing practice into your daily routine. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day, morning and night, and to floss at least once. The number one factor in poor dental health for college students is the loss of a brushing and flossing routine.
Choose Healthy Snacks
Students are typically excited about their new-found freedom to eat whatever they want. Additionally, when stressed or pressed for time, students continue to eat poorly, opting for processed foods, on the go. One of the most important dental tips for college students is to choose healthy snacks. Healthy, tooth-friendly snacks will help maintain and promote good oral health. Instead of turning to high-sugar foods like ice-cream, chips or boxed meals, choose more nutrient-rich snacks. Some easy ideas include raw vegetables and hummus, yogurt, and apple slices dipped in peanut butter. These healthy snacks help reduce cavities and strengthen enamel. The bonus? Healthy eating increases your attention and focus, which will improve your schoolwork!
Write Appointments Down
Between the chaos of college courses, extracurricular activities and social outings, appointments get lost in the mix. When you make your dental appointments, make sure to add them to your online calendar, smartphone or, even write them down in a calendar or planner. You are less likely to miss your dental appointment if set electronic reminders and notifications.
Our team would like to say “GOOD LUCK” to all of our patients attending postsecondary education this fall. If you would like to learn more about your oral health, would like to discuss other dental tips for college students, or would like to book a dental checkup before the fall, contact our office today!
