School is about to start up again and your child has some necessities. Along with getting new clothes, new shoes, and school supplies, you need to take a trip to the dentist’s office so your child has a healthy smile before heading back to class. Here’s a brief back-to-school checklist.
- Schedule (Another) Check-Up
A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that tooth decay affects U.S. children more than any other chronic infectious disease and 19 percent of children ages 2 to 19 years old have untreated tooth decay. So don’t just visit your child’s dentist during the summer. Schedule regular dental examinations to diagnose or prevent any dental problems. Regular checkups are important because your child may not bring up any tooth pain and teachers are unlikely to notice your child’s dental problems. By scheduling dental checkups often, you’ll prevent your child from losing school time.
- Make Sure They Brush and Floss
Have your child brush and floss often. While you’re out scrounging for school supplies, stock up on toothbrushes and dental floss for the school year. You’ll want to change toothbrushes every three months or after encountering a sickness. An easy way to remember when to switch out a toothbrush is to do so when report cards come out. You might also want to ask your dentist the best time to change toothbrushes for your child’s teeth.
- Watch What They Eat & How They Play
Make sure your child is eating healthy lunches and snacks. Avoid sugary foods and soft drinks. If you pack a sack lunch, include foods like grains, milk, cheese, vegetables, fruits, and yogurt. If your child eats in the school cafeteria, discuss with your child some healthy options to eat when not under your supervision. Also, if your child is involved in sports, have them wear a properly fitted mouth guard while participating in sports and PE classes.
Your child’s dental problems can lead to difficulty in eating, speaking, and learning. Prevent it by visiting their dentist every four months. For any questions concerning your child’s healthy smile, give Dr. Silva a call at (512) 605-0860.