College students are at an increased risk for cavities and gum disease.
The reasons vary and range from brushing and flossing less, eating and drinking damaging foods more and stress.
As a parent, there are ways you can make sure your student keeps up with their dental care routine, even though you may be miles away. The Nebraska Medicine dental staff at the University Health Center recommend two solutions:
1) Send an oral care package
Some students forget to stock up on dental hygiene supplies. For others, money may be tight, and they allocate their funds to food or other critical needs.
If your student needs help, consider sending them an oral care package. Items we recommend include:
• A new toothbrush or electric toothbrush head
• A package of dental floss
• Mouth rinse
• Healthy snacks that deter cavities (like mixed nuts or whole grain crackers)
2) Remind them to schedule a dental appointment
There’s no denying that students have extremely busy schedules, but it’s important that they don’t lose sight of visiting a dentist regularly. Keeping up with regular cleaning and preventive care appointments will help them prevent tooth decay, gingivitis and mitigate other oral concerns.
Instead of delaying care by trying to schedule them an appointment with a dentist back home during spring break (when dentist office schedules are typically busy), encourage them to visit the University Health Center Dental Clinic on campus. The location makes it easy for your student to fit an appointment in and around their busy schedules. Not only that, but our staff are experts in oral hygiene and can help your student navigate the unique dental concerns they face while in college.
Have your student call (402) 472-7495 to schedule a visit or visit our website to learn more about services.
More details at: http://health.unl.edu/dental