You likely have a lot of things on your list in preparation for your child going back to school. Between getting new supplies and outfits, meeting with teachers, stocking the fridge with healthy snacks, and getting the kids to bed at a decent hour, there’s a lot going on.
However, although the back-to-school time of year is a busy season, don’t forget about your child’s regular dental checkup. Although it may not seem like an important event, here’s why you should consider making a dental checkup part of your child’s back-to-school checklist.
Prevent Cavities
Cavities are very common in children, with more than half of all children between the ages of six and eight having had at least one cavity in their baby teeth [1]. Early tooth decay doesn’t show many symptoms, if any. Often, by the time your child complains of a toothache, a filling itself may not be able to fix the problem.
Regular dental checkups can help prevent cavities in children. Your dentist will check their smiles for existing cavities and the professional teeth cleanings can also help prevent cavities in the first place. In addition, children who see the dentist more regularly can be more motivated to care for their teeth and understand the importance of oral health at an early age.
Ensure Your Child Is Pain-Free
Getting your child’s dental exam and cleaning out of the way will ensure your child doesn’t have to miss school for the appointment. In addition, your dentist can also conduct a cleaning and potentially a fluoride treatment to help correct any tooth damage that may have happened since their last checkup, especially over the summer.
However, perhaps the most important thing about getting a dental checkup is that your dentist can ensure there aren’t any problems that could be causing your little one discomfort, such as an improper bite, tooth decay, or even gum inflammation [2]. Discomfort doesn’t only affect a child’s mood, but their ability to concentrate in school as well.
Address Bite Issues
Improper bites, also called malocclusions, are relatively common in children, with overbites being the most common type of bite problem. Bite issues may sound superficial, but they can take a toll on your child’s oral health and confidence—some bite issues can cause trouble with eating and speaking, and may even make it more difficult for your child to keep their teeth clean [3].
Your dentist can not only check your child’s bite, but refer you to an orthodontist if necessary to see if your child could need braces. Early orthodontic intervention can minimize the need for extensive treatment and help permanently correct your child’s bite.
When Was Your Child’s Last Dental Checkup?
If it’s been more than six months since your child’s last dental checkup, it’s time to schedule one for their back-to-school time. Reach out to your child’s dentist today—an exam and cleaning will help keep your little one’s teeth healthy and have them feeling confident for their first day of school!
Sources:
1. https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/childrens-oral-health/index.html
2. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/questions-for-school-dental-exam
3. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/back-to-school
