How to Keep Kids Cavity-Free Over Winter Break

Winter break brings plenty of joy for kids — time off from school, holiday treats, family events, and cozy evenings at home. But while it’s a season of fun, it also comes with a break from routine. And when brushing habits slide and sweets become more frequent, it can be a recipe for cavities.

At Main Street Dental in Bentonville, AR, Dr. Grayson Dillingham and Dr. Joshua Brudi help families build simple, realistic strategies to keep smiles healthy — even during the sugar-filled season. Here’s how to keep your kids cavity-free over winter break, without taking the fun out of the holidays.

Keep Brushing (Even If the Schedule Changes)

With no school bell to ring and bedtimes that shift later than usual, it’s easy for brushing routines to get off track. The most important thing you can do? Keep brushing and flossing consistent — at least twice a day for two full minutes, and flossing once daily.

Try anchoring brushing to a winter break routine: after breakfast and again before bed, for example. And if your child is staying up later than usual or traveling, a brushing reminder (or even brushing together) can keep things on track without a fuss.

Sweets Are Fine — Timing Matters

Holiday treats are part of the season, and there’s no need to cut them out entirely. But when and how often your child eats sugary foods makes a big difference.

Rather than snacking on sweets throughout the day, try offering them alongside meals. When sugar is eaten with other foods, saliva production increases — which helps neutralize acids and clear food particles. Plus, consolidating sweets to mealtimes reduces how often teeth are exposed to sugar, which can lower the risk of cavities.

Between meals, encourage water as the go-to drink — and save sweets for after lunch or dinner when it can be part of the routine (and followed by a good brushing if possible).

Hydration Helps

Dry winter air, heating systems, and lower water intake can all lead to reduced saliva — and saliva is key in protecting teeth. It washes away food debris, neutralizes acids, and supports remineralization of enamel.

Make water easily accessible throughout the day, especially if your child is active outdoors or enjoying warm seasonal drinks like cocoa. A refillable bottle is a great companion for sledding, skating, or even just relaxing indoors.

Keep Smart Snacks in Reach

With more time at home, kids often snack out of boredom — and sugary, sticky snacks are the easiest to grab. To help set them up for success, stock the kitchen with tooth-friendly options like:

• Crunchy fruits and veggies (carrots, apples, cucumbers)
• Cheese sticks or slices
• Nuts or nut butters (if age-appropriate)
• Plain popcorn
• Hard-boiled eggs

Putting these in easy-to-reach spots can help guide better choices, especially during long afternoons indoors.

Schedule a Post-Holiday Checkup

If your child is due for a cleaning or checkup, winter break is a great time to schedule it. Not only does it free up your calendar, but it gives us the chance to remove any plaque or tartar buildup, check for early signs of decay, and apply fluoride treatments and protective dental sealants.

Even if everything looks great, a visit with Dr. Dillingham or Dr. Brudi is a chance to reinforce good brushing techniques and get your child back on track for the new year.

Family Dentistry at Main Street Dental

Whether your child is enjoying lazy mornings, packed holiday plans, or everything in between, a little structure goes a long way in keeping their teeth healthy over winter break.

At Main Street Dental in Bentonville, AR, we’re here to make dental care easy, accessible, and kid-friendly — no matter the season. If you have questions about your child’s brushing routine, cavity risks, or need to schedule a winter visit, give us a call. We’re happy to help your family head into the new year with healthy, happy smiles.

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Categorised in: Dental Tips, Family Dental Care, Preventive Dental Care