Gateway Family Dental Blog

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Here's Why Your Child Needs a Back-To-School Dental Exam

August is the time when many children head back to school. While you’re focusing on your child’s vision exams, hearing tests and physicals, it’s important not to forget their dental health.

Why is it important to schedule a dental examination before your child goes back to school?

Let’s discuss.

More Than Half of Children Ages 5-9 Have a Cavity

Cavities are exceedingly common in children. They are also a painful distraction–especially when children are trying to focus on learning in the classroom.

Many children are afraid of or intimidated by going to the dentist, so they won’t openly express tooth pain or discomfort. Dental pain can cause children to become anxious, irritable and even unmotivated. This can become a huge distraction during the school year.

Schedule a dental check-up before the school year starts, and make sure any dental issues he might have are fixed before the demands of school get underway.

It’s Easier to Schedule a Dental Exam During the Summer

When many parents think of the school year, one word comes to mind: busy.

Whether your kids are involved in fall sports or academic clubs, there’s always more to do when school is in session.

It’s easier to schedule one of your child’s biannual dental examinations during the summer months when your schedule is less hectic.

Many Children Don’t Brush Properly

The mechanics of tooth-brushing and flossing can be difficult for children to master. Plus, many children simply don’t like brushing and flossing, and as a result, don’t brush as long or as well as they should.

This can lead tooth problems in childhood and early adolescence that can plague your children for years to come.

Scheduling regular dental exams will help your child establish good oral hygiene habits. It will also help ensure he is brushing and flossing properly. This can give parents extra piece of mind as the school year starts.

Want more information on children’s dental health? Check out another one of our blogs.

Ready to schedule your child’s back-to-school dental exam with Gateway Family Dentistry? Contact us today!

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