As another summer comes to an end and a new school year fast approaches, many of us parents begin the task of preparing our children for their first day back to school. We shop for the necessary school supplies, update their wardrobes, and ensure they have the necessary immunizations to continue in school. But did you know, it is also important for children to have a dental exam before returning to school to ensure they have a healthy smile.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the #1 chronic infectious disease that affects U.S. children is tooth decay or cavities. It is estimated that 5% of children between ages 6 – 11 and 17% of adolescents between ages 12 – 19 have untreated tooth decay. Tooth decay can lead to dental pain, which can impair a child’s ability to eat, speak, play, and learn at school. Here are some back-to-school dental tips to help prevent tooth decay and protect your child’s smile:
Encourage Good Oral Hygiene. It is important to encourage children of all ages to brush their teeth twice a day and floss daily. Younger children may need you to help them brush and floss and check to make sure they have thoroughly cleaned their teeth as many of them miss the back teeth and the gumline areas. For older children and teenagers, you can lead by example by practicing good oral hygiene yourself and asking about their oral hygiene habits.
Schedule Regular Dental Exams. It is recommended that most children see the dentist at least every six months for a dental examination, receive x-rays (as needed), and have a professional dental cleaning. These visits not only keep children’s teeth free of tartar and plaque build-up, but also allow the dentist to diagnose and treat any small dental concerns before they become more severe.
Consider A Mouth Guard for Sports. For children that play contact sports such as football, basketball, lacrosse, or wrestling, a mouth guard can help protect their teeth, lips, and jaw from injury. A custom mouth guard designed by a dentist specifically to fit your child’s teeth is much more protective than a store bought one.
Healthy Eating.If your child brings their lunch, consider including healthier lunch items and snacks such as grains, milk, cheese, raw vegetables, yogurt, or fruit, instead of sugary foods or soft drinks. If your child eats in the school cafeteria, review healthy, balanced food choices with them before the first day of school.
We hope these tips will allow everyone in your family to have the beautiful, healthy smile they deserve for back-to-school and help them maintain it throughout the school year and beyond. If your child is in need of a dental exam to complete their 3300 form for school this fall, our office is offering school-aged children those examinations at no charge until September 1!
2872 Johnson Ferry Road • 770-993-3775 • www.cheekdental.com
