80 days and 80 nights... without brushing
Golden hair from the sun, brand new backpacks, knee wounds, and the occasional summer love constitute the most noticeable balance of days of splashing and carefreeness during school summer vacations.
However, eighty days away from routines and responsibilities also have more painful consequences. If post-vacation syndrome manifests in adults as apathy, anxiety, or work problems, in children it appears in a much more tangible way: cavities, gingivitis, and other dental problems that become evident when returning to school.
The summer dental disaster
At Microdental Clinic in Mojacar, we see a significant increase in childhood dental problems every September. Why does this happen?
Routine breakdown
During the school year, children follow structured schedules:
- Morning brushing before school
- Evening brushing before bed
- Regular meals at set times
- Limited access to sweets
Summer destroys these routines. Late nights, lazy mornings, and relaxed parental supervision mean oral hygiene takes a backseat. Many children go days without proper brushing, especially when staying with grandparents or at summer camps.
The sugar explosion
Summer treats are everywhere:
- Ice cream: Daily or multiple times daily
- Sodas and juices: Constant hydration with sugar
- Popsicles: Pure sugar on a stick
- Candy at fairs and festivals: Cotton candy, caramel apples
- Snacking: All-day grazing without proper cleaning
Pool and beach hazards
Chlorinated pool water and seawater affect oral health:
- Chlorine can erode tooth enamel
- Saltwater dries the mouth, reducing protective saliva
- Dehydration from sun exposure affects saliva production
- Sports and play increase risk of dental trauma
September: The dental reality check
When school starts, problems become visible:
Common issues we see
- New cavities: 3-5 new cavities per child average
- Gingivitis: Red, swollen, bleeding gums
- Plaque buildup: Visible yellow deposits
- Bad breath: From bacteria accumulation
- Tooth sensitivity: From enamel erosion
- Chipped teeth: From summer accidents
Academic impact
Dental problems affect school performance:
- Pain distracts from learning
- Missed school days for dental appointments
- Difficulty eating affects nutrition and energy
- Self-consciousness affects participation
- Sleep disruption from tooth pain
The back-to-school dental protocol
Immediate actions
- Schedule a checkup: First week of September ideally
- Professional cleaning: Remove summer buildup
- Cavity detection: Early treatment is simpler
- Fluoride treatment: Strengthen weakened enamel
- Sealants: Protect molars before problems start
Re-establishing routines
- Set specific brushing times linked to school schedule
- Pack travel toothbrushes for after-school activities
- Limit sugary snacks to special occasions
- Provide water bottles instead of juice boxes
- Create a reward chart for consistent brushing
Prevention for next summer
Pre-vacation checkup
Visit your dentist in June to:
- Treat any existing problems
- Apply preventive sealants
- Get fluoride treatment
- Receive vacation care instructions
Summer survival kit
Prepare a dental care package:
- Fun, colorful toothbrushes
- Flavored toothpaste kids love
- Portable floss picks
- Sugar-free gum for after treats
- Timer or app for brushing
Smart substitutions
- Frozen fruit instead of ice cream
- Water with fruit slices instead of soda
- Cheese cubes instead of candy
- Veggie sticks with hummus for snacking
Year-round dental health at Microdental
At Microdental Clinic in Mojacar, we offer comprehensive pediatric dental programs:
- Preventive care plans
- School year checkup schedules
- Emergency services for accidents
- Education programs for families
- Fun, fear-free environment for kids
Do not let summer vacation create a semester of dental problems. Schedule your childs back-to-school dental checkup today and start the academic year with a healthy, confident smile!
