In these times when we are more at home and our usual routines are completely altered, it is very common for children, but also adults, to comfort themselves by eating. However, this action can compromise our oral health.
When we're busy and focused on something, our brain often forgets to tell us to eat, but when we have nothing to do or are simply sitting in front of a TV, tablet, or computer passing the time, it seems like we're always hungry!
Eating more frequently and without rules, often even sugary foods, as well as being terrible for our physique and that of our children, can also have serious consequences for oral health!
As a way to minimise this problem, I recommend:
- Avoid eating between meals.
- Whenever you feel hungry and fancy a snack, opt for a piece of fruit, such as an apple.
- Alternatively, you can choose a raw vegetable, such as a carrot, or dried fruit.
- Brush your teeth after every meal. Now that we're spending more time at home, there's no excuse not to do it.
- Never go to sleep with dirty teeth! Whether it's at night or when you have an afternoon nap.
- Don't rely too much on children to brush their teeth themselves. They usually don't do it properly. If they are young children, we should brush their teeth for them; if they are older, we should help them and monitor if they are doing it effectively.
- Just like adults, teenagers should also floss at least once a day.
