As a mother, you have your hands full, regardless of whether you work or stay at home, whether you’re a single mom or married, whether you have one child or five. So much of your life is centered on your children, but this Mother’s Day, no one’s smile matters as much as yours!
Before and even after your special day, here are some dental health tips that will keep your smile bright and strong both for you and for your kiddos!
Prioritize Self-Care
Between work, your kids’ activities, meal prep, and taking care of the house, your schedule is probably overwhelming. As a mother, you may find it hard to spare a moment that’s exclusively for yourself, but unless you give yourself time for your own basic needs, you won’t be able to care for those who depend on you.
In addition, keeping your smile healthy and beautiful can work wonders for your confidence and give you a mental health boost when you need it most.
Brush and Floss Every Day
Whether you stay at home with your kids all day or go to work, daily oral hygiene shouldn’t be negotiable. But don’t worry—you can involve your little ones in this routine! While you brush, give them a toothbrush to use as well. You’ll be showing them healthy habits that they’ll need throughout their whole life. So, as you’re caring for your own smile, you can teach your children simultaneously!
Eat a Healthy Diet
Although your young child may need frequent feedings throughout the day, it doesn’t mean you do. Crackers, chips, gummy fruit snacks, and juice—kid favorites—are particularly damaging to your teeth and gums because they encourage oral bacterial growth.
Instead of indulging in sugary, starchy foods and drinks, stick to fruits and vegetables that contain nutrients your body will use to fight infection as well as boost your energy and health.
Drink Plenty of Water
Although some days you may feel like you must drink 10 cups of coffee or tons of energy drinks just to keep up with your kids, water is by far the best beverage for your smile and your body. It rinses bits of food, plaque, and bacteria out of your mouth. Plus, water can help reduce inflammation in your gums and throughout your body. Even if you continue to have caffeine, try to consume more H2O every day.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Going to the dentist’s office to have your teeth cleaned may not be your idea of having “me” time away from your kids, but it’s an important appointment to keep. While you focus on and tend to your growing little ones, this professional can watch out for cavities, inflammation, and other oral issues for you. If they find a still-developing problem, they can treat it as early as possible, sparing you the pain, expense, and time of having to deal with a dental emergency later.
As you take care of yourself, you can have a greater capacity to care for your children, give them what they need, and teach them self-care skills they will require as they become adults. Being a mom isn’t easy, but having a strong smile can help!
About the Practice
Williamsburg Dental is a family practice, which means that patients of all ages are welcome. With six locations in Lincoln, it’s not difficult to find one close to you. With comprehensive services, our dentists offer basically every dental need, including dental implants, preventive care, cosmetic procedures, and more. If you need to schedule an appointment, contact one of our locations, and our team will take care of you!