Most colleges are in full swing now and students are hard at work, staying up all hours studying and likely socializing. New found freedom as young adults living on their own can lead to new unhealthy lifestyle habits. Many of these can directly and negatively impact their oral health. Unfortunately it can be common to see several new areas of decay and signs of gum disease at the following dental check-up on winter or spring break.
While it is tempting to unleash all adult responsibilities as soon as your child reaches a certain age, or leaves home, it is helpful to make sure they are ready and help them with the transition. Here are some small things you can do to help your college student keep healthy habits while away from home:
Stock them up with the tools they need for good oral hygiene.
Giving them a full years supply of toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss or other aids to clean between the teeth, and mouth rinse is ideal. Or send these items in a care package periodically. In some situations college students cannot easily get to the store to buy the items they need, or they are overwhelmed with studies they forget to restock after running out. Send sugar free gum with xylitol as well, it can help prevent cavities and some studies show it can help concentration while studying for tests!
Send them a friendly reminder.
It sounds silly but most teenagers at home need reminders to brush and floss everyday, so keep up the reminders for a bit after they leave home. Since most college students are most easily reached through phone you can send a text or email a funny picture as motivation to brush and floss. As they become more comfortable in their new surroundings they can establish a routine on their own.
Encourage a healthy diet.
Diet has a direct impact on oral health, in particular college students are at a higher risk for decay due to unhealthy changes in their diet. For the first time they can eat and drink whatever they want, and healthy choices are not on their mind. Enrolling them in a school meal program will help cover the three essential meals a day. College students can be crunched for time between courses and always on the go so it also helps to stock them up with healthy snacks they can grab and go like portioned nuts and plain popcorn. Discuss the need for lots of healthy “brain food” like vegetables and fruits, dairy like yogurt and cheese, and protein. Ask them to avoid processed foods that are loaded with unhealthy sugars and empty nutrition. Send healthy snack options in a care package, their body and oral health will thank you!
Discourage soda and energy drink use.
Energy drinks and soda are full of unhealthy chemicals, sugar, and acids. If your college student needs more energy and getting more sleep isn’t possible, encourage plain coffee or caffeinated teas without added sugar.
Tell them to just say no.
Tobacco use and drinking are the biggest risk factors for tooth loss due to decay and gum disease along with causing oral cancer.
Have the talk.
As hard as it may be, it is important to send the message to practice safe sex. The human papillomavirus, or HPV is a sexually transmitted disease that is easily spread and often goes undetected. It is widely known for its association to cervical cancer but it is also now one of the leading causes of oral cancer.
Make sure they are going to the dentist.
It is important to continue regular dental exam and preventative cleanings to maintain good oral health. These regular check-ups will detect any issues early on and reinforce importance of good oral hygiene. If they are far from home make sure you have a dental contact in case of emergency or establish them as a new patient if they cannot make it home twice a year. Many areas have a local dental school which can provide affordable care.
The mouth is the gateway to the body so keeping the mouth healthy is positive for your whole well being. Your young adult will thank you for the information and care to help them keep their smiles healthy. Even if they do not say it now, they will later!