The start of school is often filled with excitement as kids strap on their backpacks, prepare to meet their teacher, and make new friends. But before they kick off another year, why not make sure their smile is set up for success? Believe it or not, their oral health can have a positive or negative impact on their academic performance, so if you want to keep them in the classroom, learn why a visit to the dentist before school starts can help.
How Can a Child’s Oral Health Affect Their Academic Performance?
According to a study published in the American Journal of Public Health, elementary school-aged children miss an average of 6 days each year, 2 of which are due to dental-related issues. As a result, they are more likely to struggle in the classroom, resulting in lower grades.
When children frequently miss school because of cavities and other oral health problems, their academic performance suffers. Instead of spending more time learning, they are undergoing treatment for preventable dental issues.
How Can You Help Your Child Maintain a Healthier Smile?
Instead of waiting until school starts, why not schedule a dental appointment to kick off the new year? A visit to the dentist’s office for a general exam and cleaning is one of the most effective ways to ensure their teeth and gums are ready to go.
Their dentist will check for signs of decay, infection, and damage, and remove plaque and tartar to leave their pearly whites looking beautiful for their first day. If any potential problems are discovered, you can be confident that your child will receive appropriate treatment before re-entering the classroom.
Other ways you can help your child maintain a healthier smile include:
- Making sure they are brushing, flossing, and rinsing properly.
- Packing healthy lunches and snacks that promote good oral health.
- Ensuring they are drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Providing them with a custom mouthguard to prevent dental damage while playing sports.
- Seeking treatment for cavities, infections, gum disease, decay, and other oral health issues right away.
- Keeping up with their biannual dental checkups and cleanings.
Give your child the best chance to succeed this year in the classroom and at the dentist’s office. Schedule an appointment before school begins and watch them reap the benefits of a healthier smile.
About the Practice
Rauchberg Dental Group is a multi-specialty practice led by Dr. Alan Rauchberg. With five dental experts, we are pleased to treat patients of all ages, including school-aged children. Our dentists care about keeping young smiles healthy and happy year-round, which is why we offer biannual checkups and cleanings, custom mouthguards, and more. If your child needs to see a dentist before the new school year, visit our website or call (973) 718–9887 to schedule a consultation.