Back-to-School Dental Checklist: Essential Tips for Your Child’s Oral Health
As summer winds down and back-to-school preparations begin, it’s the perfect time to check in on your child’s dental health. A healthy smile can not only boost confidence but also set the tone for a great school year. Here is a simple checklist to help make sure your child’s oral health is taken care of before school starts.
Schedule a Back-to-School Dental Exam with Dr. Bhavya Patel
An annual dental checkup is crucial for catching issues early, like cavities, gum concerns, or signs of misalignment. Dr. Bhavya Patel offers gentle, comprehensive care tailored for children of all ages. A pre-school-year visit ensures your child starts fresh with a clean, healthy smile and gives you peace of mind as the school year begins.
Reinforce Good Brushing & Flossing
Summer can be crazy, and routines and habits become more relaxed. As your child gets back into the school groove, re-establish consistent oral hygiene, such as:
- Brush twice a day for two minutes
- Floss once daily
- Supervise younger children to ensure proper technique
Consider setting reminders or using a brushing app to keep your child motivated and consistent.
Monitor Diet
Teaching your child about smart nutrition can help with their oral health. Limit sugary snacks, sticky candy, and acidic drinks like soda. Encourage drinking water throughout the day, especially fluoridated tap water!
Invest in a Mouthguard for Sports
If your child plays contact sports like football, basketball, or soccer, the dentist can provide you with a custom-fit mouthguard to protect your teeth from serious injuries. Bring this up at your next dentist appointment; this small investment can save thousands in emergency dental care.
Plan for Orthodontic Evaluations if Needed
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends evaluations by age 7. If your child hasn’t had one yet, or if their teeth appear crowded, crooked, or if bite issues are present, back-to-school season is a great time to schedule. Early detection can lead to simpler and more effective treatment plans.
Keep Emergency Contacts Updated
Accidents happen, especially on the playground or sports field. Make sure the school nurse and administration have up-to-date contact information for your family dentist and emergency dental care provider. Quick access can make a big difference in urgent situations.
Contact Birch Family Dentistry To Schedule Your Child’s Appointment
Taking a few proactive steps now can help your child maintain a healthy smile throughout the school year. For friendly, expert care, schedule your child’s back-to-school dental exam with Dr. Bhavya Patel today and cross this checklist off with confidence! Give us a call at 603-471-6000 or fill out our contact form to get in touch with our office!