Three Reasons to Schedule Your Child’s Back-to-School Dental Check Up Now!

It’s time for our youngest patients to head back to school! We understand that this time of year is a busy one for parents and students. There’s school supply shopping, well checks, haircut appointments, and also fun last-minute memories to be made. However, The American Dental Association (and Dr. E!) also encourages parents to include dental visits on their back-to-school checklists! Here are three reasons why…

1) Dental decay negatively affects more U.S. children than any other chronic disease! In fact, the CDC estimates that nearly 20% of children ages 2 through 19 years old have some type of untreated tooth decay. This can lead to cavities, toothache or tooth pain, tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and even tooth infection or tooth loss! Let the start of the school year serve as a reminder for parents to “do their homework” by being mindful and proactive. Regular dental visits are essential to early detection and prevention of tooth decay in children (and adults).

2) Children can “outgrow” their dental habits. Just as they may have outgrown last year’s school wardrobe, your child’s mouth is constantly changing and growing. That’s why it’s important for parents to make sure their kiddos are equipped with the right tools for a healthy smile. Do they need to upgrade their toothbrush to a larger size or switch to an electric toothbrush? Are they reaching those new permanent molars way in back when brushing? Are they flossing properly by themselves? A back-to-school dental visit allows your hygienist to share some critical, age-appropriate oral hygiene tips while your dentist can “grade” their overall oral health and treat any concerns.

3) Good oral health habits need to start young! While maintaining dental health is important for all ages, instilling healthy habits in children will position them for a lifetime of oral health. Along with practicing proper oral hygiene, regular dental visits are one of the most effective ways you can protect and invest in your oral health. Be a good “dental role model” for your child. Visit the dentist regularly yourself and teach them that their oral health should be one of their top priorities. In addition, keep in mind that if they have positive experiences visiting the dentist regularly when they are young, they will be more likely to schedule and maintain regular dental visits as adults!

Parents, even though the back-to-school appointments and shopping lists may seem endless this time of year, we ask you to make dental visits a priority, too. Let us partner with you to make sure that your child’s smile is school ready, too!

Help your child maintain that A+ smile! Call today to schedule your child’s back-to-school dental check up with Dr. E Cosmetic & Family Dentistry!

480-494-2435