The start of the school year is right around the corner. You’re busy trying to soak up what’s left of summer, going back to school shopping, and making sure your little one is ready for the year ahead. But there’s one thing you shouldn’t leave off your back-to-school checklist – scheduling a checkup at your family dentists!
Why Take Your Child for a Back To School Appointment?
Once the school year starts, your schedule will fill up with after-school activities, sports practices, and more. Scheduling an appointment with your local dentist while your schedule is still flexible will make things much easier. The appointment will include:
- A thorough oral exam to look for cavities or other issues
- Teeth cleaning
- X-rays, if necessary
- A discussion of any concerns you may have regarding your child’s oral health
Your family dentists may also recommend sealants to protect your child’s teeth from developing cavities. Here are some reasons why back to school dental appointments are so important.
Prevention
Going to your family dentists regularly will allow them to catch any dental issues in their early stages. Early detection often means these issues will be easier to treat. Seeing your dentist before the school year starts will also keep your child from missing school if they need any additional appointments or procedures.
Sets Them Up for Success
Taking your child to the dentist will reinforce good oral hygiene habits. Their dentist will teach them about the proper way to care for their teeth. For example, when brushing their teeth, they should place their toothbrush at a 45-degree angle where the gums and teeth meet, according to Oral-B.
In addition, by taking your child to the dentist early on, they’ll develop a comfort level with the dental practice and positive habits that will set them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Better Overall Health
There is a very real connection between your child’s oral health and their overall health. Not having good oral health can affect their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Some of the effects include:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Lower self-esteem
- Speech issues
- Eventual health issues like heart disease, dementia, and respiratory problems
Regular appointments with your family dentists will keep these issues at bay and improve your child’s overall health.
Get A+ Treatment at Thomas Dentistry
At Thomas Dentistry, we specialize in treating your entire family, and we see kids of all ages in our office. We want to make sure your child is ready for a healthy and happy school year! So contact us to schedule an appointment today.
