Chapped Lips? We Can Help.

Does your little one have chapped lips but you’re not really sure what to do about it? Is it a severe case or is it quite mild? The last thing you want is for your kiddo to feel uncomfortable, so we understand if you’re feeling a little frantic for a solution. While a very serious case of dry lips and surrounding skin may call for a trip to the dermatologist or pediatrician, a few suggestions will most certainly assist with this aspect of your child’s smile health.

Check In On Hydration

Has your child actually been drinking the water you have been offering up during meals? What’s your child drinking at school? Take a moment to consider this detail! Increase fluids and actually watch your child drink, while you limit stuff like sodas and anything loaded with artificial ingredients. A hydrated body yields a hydrated mouth, which is helpful all around when it comes to smile health and chapped lips.

Determine The Cause Of Mouth Breathing

Your child might have chapped lips as a result of mouth breathing. This usually happens when your child is congested, so check in on the potential for a cold or allergies. Keep in mind that sensitive kids may need a hypoallergenic environment for sleeping to promote open upper airways. As airways open, breathing returns to the nose, and those chapped lips will be able to go away.

Apply Balm

For very little kids, you may want to apply a hypoallergenic balm, such as petroleum jelly, which will protect lips and the delicate skin surrounding them. For children who are old enough to tote lip balm to school with them without eating it, send this with your child and remind your son or daughter to use it when lips feel dry (instead of licking, which can make matters worse)!

Ask For Help With Common Concerns During Checkups

The checkups you schedule for your children allow us to keep track of their oral health, while answering your questions about care. Schedule a visit with your Dallas, TX children’s dentist, Dr. Marr at Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda by calling 214-321-4880. We proudly welcome patients from Dallas, TX, and all surrounding communities, including Casa Linda, Lakewood, Lake Highlands, Forest Hills, East Dallas, Mesquite, Garland, Richardson, and more.

filed under: Family Dentistry, Tips/Advice