It’s Back to School Dental Check-Up Time!

Every school year, American kids miss over 51,000,000 hours of school because of dental problems and toothaches.  You read that correctly, 51 Million!  Although it is the most common childhood disease, tooth decay, is also one of the most preventable.  Taking simple steps to help ensure that your kids go back to school with healthy teeth and gums will save you time, money and lost school hours this year.

 

Schedule a Dental Check-Up and Professional Cleaning Every 6 Months

We often hear people say that they aren’t having any dental pain, and they can’t see any problems so they do not need to go to the dentist.  This is especially true among school age children.  In fact, kids should start seeing the dentist along with the appearance of the very first baby teeth.  Turning them on to regular dental care from an early age helps prevent anxiety and dental fear.  Just as important, regular dental check-ups and teeth cleaning help keep teeth and gums healthy.  If a problem does begin to develop, you can be sure your dentist will identify it early, before it becomes an expensive and painful dental problem.  Staying on track with dental check-ups every 6 months is a proven way to avoid serious dental problems. 

Sealants for Permanent Teeth

When it comes to children’s personal dental hygiene, a very reliable rule of thumb is this- a child does not have the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively on their own until they can successfully tie their shoes.  Because kids’ dental habits are not always consistent or predictable, dental sealants can help seal out destructive plaque and bacteria on the chewing surface of the back teeth.  A dental sealant is a simple, painless and extremely affordable treatment that can help prevent tooth decay.  Seal permanent teeth as they come in.  Dental sealants usually last long enough for kids to become more effective at dental hygiene every day. 

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride helps teeth stay healthy and strong.  Fluoride treatment can inhibit tooth decay and help keep enamel strong and durable.  Your dentist can recommend a professional treatment that will help prevent cavities.  Fluoride treatments can be applied in the dental office or given as a prescription gel to use at home.  Proper use of fluoride treatments has been proven to help prevent cavities. 

Schedule a Back to School Dental Check-Up

There is more to a kid’s dental check-up than just a polish and a quick check!  Your child’s dental appointment is a learning opportunity.  Your hygienist is responsible for educating kids about the best personal dental hygiene habits and providing instruction for good home care.  She can talk to your kids about how to keep their teeth healthy and clean.  Using fun visual aids, demonstrations and instructions they can understand, your hygienist knows how to talk to kids about their teeth.  To schedule your family’s Back to School Dental Check-Up, contact Forest Lane Dental today.