Parents, it’s that time of year again! As your children have started back to school, everything is new and fresh: new school supplies, new teachers, and new experiences. With this sense of renewal, why not send them back to school with a fresh smile? Even if your child’s school doesn’t require a dental exam as a part of the “back to school to-do list,” it’s important to start the school year off with a healthy mouth. If healthy dental habits “fell away” during the summer months, a back-to-school appointment is the perfect opportunity to take care of any damage before it becomes an issue.
Along with a dental cleaning, your child will receive a full dental exam as a part of his back-to-school appointment. Identifying any orthodontic issues or signs of infection can help us better treat your child and avoid the development of cavities and disease. This appointment is also a great time to consult with your provider about your child’s dental hygiene routine. There may be a few things you can do to help your child develop better cleaning habits.
Back to School Dental Care
With the start of school brings the beginning of fall sports, which can also bring about unwanted mouth injuries. If your child plays any contact sports, you should consult with your provider about having him fitted for a mouthguard. If your child already has a mouthguard, it is important to bring it along with you to the appointment to have it examined. Your provider can check for any wear and tear and can make sure it still fits properly for your child’s ever-evolving teeth.
Additionally, we will take the proper precautions to prevent future cavities. Your provider may suggest sealants as a part of your child’s dental treatment. In addition to maintaining healthy oral hygiene habits, sealants can help prevent bacteria from hiding in those hard to reach areas where a toothbrush can’t reach. Applying sealants is pain-free, and they can last for years. If your child has his permanent molars, it is a good idea to ask if sealants are an option for your child’s preventative treatment.
Our team here at Westlake Family Dental Care is here to help answer any questions you may have about your child’s treatment. Call us today to schedule a back-to-school cleaning and exam!