Science Experiments for Winter Break

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Having trouble keeping your kids busy this week?  These fun experiments will keep kids entertained AND help them learn a little bit about the science behind their tooth-care.

Sugar Guessing Game
Many kids (and adults) don't realize just how much sugar is in what they drink every day.  This fun activity will help you create a visual of the amount of sugar we drink and you can help your kids make healthier choices.

1.  Label three cups - each with a different drink name.
2. Determine the amount of sugar in each cup by dividing the total grams of sugar in the container by 4.2.  Use a teaspoon to measure the sugar and place in the three plastic cups.
3. Label the remaining three cups with drink names and put the cups in front of the drink containers.
4. Have your child use a teaspoon to spoon the amount of sugar they think is in the drink into the corresponding cup.
5. Bring out the cups with the correct  amount you made earlier and compare!

Fluoride Egg-Speriment

Egg shells and teeth have one thing in common - they can both be weakened by acid.  This experiment show kids how fluoride helps strengthen and protect teeth.  

1. Place a hard boiled egg in a clean, plastic container.  Cover the egg with fluoride toothpaste and let it sit for 24 hours.
2. Place the fluoride treated egg in one container and an "untreated" egg in another.
3. Pour vinegar into a clean measuring cup to cover the untreated egg.  Watch as bubbles form on the unprotected egg.
4. Leave the egg in the vinegar until the unprotected egg softens.

Playing with Peanut Butter

Brushing teeth doesn't clean your teeth completely - that's why we need to floss!  This sticky activity will help you show your kids the importance of flossing.

1. Put on a rubber glove and have your kid stick peanut butter in between your fingers.  Make sure they get deep in between your fingers!  If you don't want to do this - have a sibling get involved!
2. Tighten your fingers together again and with your fingers together, have them scrub the peanut butter away with toothpaste and a toothbrush.
3. Now try to remove the peanut butter with dental floss.  It'll be pretty clear that you need both to get the gloved hand clean.

Is it time to schedule your child's biannual cleaning & exam?  You can schedule an appointment by calling 516-222-5100 to reach our Garden City office or 516-759-7000 to reach our Glen Cove office.  

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