How to Build a Family Dental Routine that Actually Works!

Even During Summer Break!

Summer’s here, school’s out, and routines are… well, let’s just say “flexible.” While the relaxed pace of summer is something we all look forward to, it can also make it easy to let dental habits slide. But keeping your family’s smiles healthy doesn’t have to be hard—even when the days are long and the snack breaks are many!

Here’s how to create a simple, stress-free family dental routine that works all year round (and yes, even during summer).

1. Make It a Morning Thing (Before the Chaos Begins)

Start the day strong! Have everyone brush their teeth after breakfast with a soft-bristle toothbrush and a non-fluoride toothpaste that contains hydroxyapatite to help remineralize enamel. Kids love routine, so even in the summer, keeping a consistent morning hygiene habit sets the tone for the day.

Pro Tip: Brushing together as a family (even just once a day) helps keep kids motivated and models good behavior.

2. Keep It Visible and Simple

Set up a “dental zone” in your bathroom with toothbrushes, flossers, and mouthwash accessible and clearly labeled for each family member. Try using a fun visual chart or sticker system for younger kids—they’ll love checking off their brushing and flossing each day.

3. Make Smart Snack Swaps

Snacking tends to spike in the summer, but many kid-friendly snacks are rough on teeth. Stock the fridge with healthy, smile-friendly choices like:

• Cheese sticks (great for pH balance)
• Apple slices or cucumber rounds
• Nuts or trail mix
• Yogurt with no added sugar
• Plenty of water—especially after meals

Encourage your kids to rinse with water after eating, especially if brushing isn’t possible right away.

4. Floss Like a Boss

Flossing isn’t just for adults. Make it part of your family dental routine! If your child has teeth that touch, they should be flossing once a day. Kid-friendly flossers can make the process easier—and less of a battle. Try tying it to another part of the day, like right after bath time or before screen time, to make it feel natural.

5. Protect Those Teeth During Sports & Outdoor Fun

From swim team to soccer camp, summer means more time outside and more risk of dental injuries. Make sure your kids wear mouthguards during contact sports and drink plenty of water to counteract dry mouth (especially from pool chlorine).

6. Keep Your Summer Checkup on the Calendar

Summer is the perfect time for dental visits—no missed school, and you can head into the new school year cavity-free! Be sure to schedule your family’s cleanings and checkups early before the back-to-school rush.

A Healthy Summer Starts with Healthy Smiles

At Dr. E’s Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we’re here to help you shape your family dental routine. Let’s keep those summer smiles healthy, clean, and bright. Whether it’s your toddler’s first visit or your teen needs a sports mouthguard, we’ve got you covered.

Give us a call at 480-494-2435 to book your summer appointments.
Because your smile is your best accessory—year-round!