According to a Journal of Public Health survey, one of the most common causes of school absenteeism was dental problems. So, parents should schedule appointments with a pediatric dentist at least twice a year. Through this, dental experts can monitor children’s dental health and identify underlying problems. Keep in mind that the earlier a dental problem gets treated,f the better. Furthermore, pediatric dentists offer specific back to school dental tips during a consultation. Once followed, these tips help in sustaining your child’s dental health during the school term.
Advantages of Good Dental Health in Kids
What are the benefits of good oral health in children? A healthy and enthusiastic child tends to have a high concentration in class. In turn, he or she will be able to get good grades. Above all, your child’s overall health gets improved. Thus, to prevent your child from getting sick and missing classes, some of the tips to follow include;
1. Too Much Candy and Sweets is Not Good for Your Child’s Dental Health
Often, a child’s favorite snack is candy. But don’t allow them to consume excessive amounts of sugar. Candy and other sugary foods are harmful to one’s oral health. They contain harmful acids that increase the risk of dental caries and cavities. Thus, children who consume large quantities of candy are at a higher risk of contracting gum and dental diseases. As parents, take part in planning a healthy diet for them daily.
Even so, allow them to take minimal quantities of candy only after meals. Somehow, teeth are often protected from sugar when you have eaten something prior. Also, ensure that your child thoroughly brushes their teeth after eating sweets and candy.
2. Think of Sealants and Fluoride Treatments
Usually, municipal water contains fluoride to boost dental health in some cities. But sometimes, your child does not get enough fluoride. One of the back to school dental tips your dental expert will recommend is buying fluoride toothpaste for your child. Alternatively, your dentist can recommend a fluoride treatment for your child. Typically, it’s a fluoride gel applied to the child’s teeth. Whenever the child eats high acidic foods, the fluoride gets released to prevent the accumulation of harmful bacteria.
Another alternative to safeguard your child’s teeth is the use of sealants. Sealants are a protective covering that prevents the formation of bacteria and plaque. Thus, it prevents dental decay and caries.
3. Teach Your Child to Brush and Clean their Teeth
Besides other back to school dental tips, dentists insist on teaching your children to clean their teeth. If your child is not yet seven years, you need to help him or her brush their teeth. Nowadays, there are online teeth brushing apps that encourage children to clean their teeth. Show them a habitual routine of brushing their teeth regularly, and when they grow up, they won’t depart from it.
Furthermore, show your child how to floss their teeth. But the best way to train a child is by setting an example. So, ensure you observe healthy oral practices. Your child will always follow your actions.
4. Constantly Examine the Condition of Your Child’s Teeth
Some parents don’t notice any oral changes that happen to their children. But it is good to frequently check the condition of your child’s teeth, gums, and even tongue. They could have a dental disease that could carry on into adulthood if you’re not careful. Thus, look out for any dental cavities, tooth discolorations, and swollen gums. Book a consultation with your pediatric dentist immediately you notice any dental abnormality. Also, a back to school dental visit will keep your child’s teeth in check.
5. Book an Appointment with Your Dentist Twice a Year
Before taking your child back to school, ensure you visit a pediatric dentist. Regular dental checkups enable your child to start the school term with a clean slate. The best time to book such appointments is during the summer holidays. Don’t wait for a week before school opens; instead, plan ahead. Upon consultation, your child’s dentist will perform specific procedures to look out for potential problems. Dental experts can schedule an X-ray examination or teeth cleaning. Through this, he can identify any underlying dental decays or cavities early enough. If your child does not have a dental condition, your dentist will be more than happy to give you the best back to school dental tips for your children.
6. Dealing with Dental Emergencies
You may encounter dental emergencies at times. Your child could hurt his or her teeth while playing rugby or fall. Thus, it would be best if you had the right contacts to call for emergency services. But your dentist will give you certain back to school dental tips for handling emergencies at your appointment.
For example, if your child’s tooth falls out, ensure you collect it without interfering with the roots. Also, keep the tooth moist. So, carefully put it back in place while on the way to the dentist. Alternatively, you can place the tooth in a small glass of milk to keep it moist.
When your child cracks their tooth, give them warm water to rinse their mouth. It helps in eliminating any dirt particles in the broken tooth. To prevent inflammation and soreness, place an ice cloth on the affected cheek. Meanwhile, seek professional dental help for further treatment. Leaving such issues untreated can cause severe dental problems.
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