Oral & Vision Health Blog

It’s Back to School Time: Don’t Forget a Dental Check-Up!

You've bought new clothes, shoes, back packs, school supplies, and you've marked off all the back-to-school to-do items on your list. But how about a back-to-school dental check up? A visit to the dentist at the start of the new school year is necessary to protect your child's overall health. 

A dental check-up is just as important as a medical one when getting ready for the new school year. Why? Dental problems can be discovered and treated in the early stages, when the damage isn't as severe. A back-to-school checkup is key in fighting the most common chronic disease found in school-age children, cavities. Children experiencing tooth pain may not always let you know. Imagine your child sitting in the classroom, trying to pay attention but being distracted by the pain in his or her mouth. Doesn't really start school off on the right foot, does it?

Prevention and early detection can help avoid pain, trouble eating, difficulty speaking and school absences.  In fact according to American Dental Association, dental disease causes children to miss more than 51 million school hours each year. Set up an appointment with your child's dentist to help your child keep a perfect attendance score! Also encourage healthy dental habits at home to keep your child's teeth healthy throughout the school year. 

1. Teach Your Child How to Floss

Flossing helps a child remove any food particles in between the teeth and prevents accumulation of bacteria on the teeth. When visiting the dentist, ask them to teach your child to floss and then take those lessons home with you. Encourage your child to make it apart of their bedtime routine. Join them the first few times for support and ensure they are not harming their gums. 

2. Encourage Drinking Water

Instead of soft drinks or juice, encourage your children to drink water often. Water is good for teeth and eliminates any loose food particles present in the mouth. Drinking water with fluoride is one of the easiest and most beneficial things you can do to help prevent cavities.

3. Talk About Why Dental Health is Important

Bring the conversation from the dentist office to your home! It is beneficial for your child to know the importance of good dental hygiene. You can get them to watch exciting and informative books about the importance of oral hygiene. This can help them understand some dental issues like cavities and tooth decays and they will be more encouraged to protect their dental health.

A back-to-school dental check-up will help your child avoid dental issues during the entire new school year. Therefore being essential to include this routine in your back-to-school routine. Want a fun activity for the waiting room? Download our free dental health coloring book!

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