Children across the country are getting ready to head back to the classroom, which means you’re busy getting the necessary school supplies to ensure they succeed during the year ahead. Did you know they need more than pens and pencils for academic success? A healthy smile is equally important as the supplies they have in their backpack. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry reports half of children will have at least 1 cavity before the age of 5, which can lead to an unexpected trip to their children’s dentist. You can ensure they spend more time in the classroom and less in the dental chair by using 4 simple tips.
1. Schedule a cleaning and checkup.
Children should have a cleaning and checkup at least twice a year. Not only are routine visits vital for removing harmful plaque and tartar buildup, but they also allow their dentist to monitor their oral health to spot untreated issues that might be lingering in their mouth, like tooth decay. According to the Office of the Surgeon General, more than 51 million school hours are lost each year from dental-related concerns, like toothaches. You can ensure your child doesn’t have any unresolved dental problems that might interrupt their school day with a quick trip to their dentist.
2. Create a back-to-school routine.
It’s easy for your child to deviate from their daily routines during summer vacation, but now is the time to get them back on track. Make sure their back-to-school routine includes their oral hygiene. As they get ready to start their day, set aside time for them to brush their teeth for at least 2 minutes. Although they might be tired after coming home from school, they should never go to bed without brushing or flossing their teeth.
3. Pack healthy lunches.
Besides their oral hygiene habits, your child’s diet is crucial to a healthy smile. When packing their lunch, choose foods and drinks that are limited in sugars and starches. They may taste great, but they create cavity-causing plaque that will damage their teeth. Instead, choose fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and water to keep their body nourished and their smile healthy.
4. Invest in an athletic mouthguard.
1 in 6 Americans has a dental emergency each year, many of which are sports-related. If your child plays contact sports, don’t send them onto the field without an athletic mouthguard. Their children’s dentist can provide them with an added layer of protection to safeguard their smile if there’s any impact to their mouth.
Promote a Great School Year
Keep your child’s smile a priority as they head back to school. You can ensure they look and feel their best for a successful school year.
About Dr. Daood Alvi
Dr. Alvi earned his dental degree at the University of Minnesota before continuing his training to focus on many specialties, including children’s dentistry. He strives to provide individualized care to create healthy smiles that last. If your child needs a back-to-school cleaning and checkup, contact our office today for an appointment.