As your child starts a new school year, do they have everything they need to succeed? Besides pencils, paper, and a backpack, there’s something else your child needs for good grades. Research shows a healthy smile is crucial for academic success. Unfortunately, 20% of children under the age of 11 have at least one untreated cavity, which can lead a dental emergency that needs immediate care from a dentist in Gainesville. You can ensure your child has everything they need for a great school year by encouraging a cavity-free smile.
Connection Between Dental Health and Academics
Your child must attend school daily to prevent falling behind. You might believe illness to be the main causes of absences; however, it’s actually dental issues, like toothaches. Often, toothaches are caused by an untreated cavity that’s infected the inner layer of the tooth, called the pulp. The only way to save the tooth and stop the pain is with a root canal, which may require multiple appointments to complete.
Unfortunately, your child’s grades aren’t the only thing to suffer the affects of an unhealthy smile. Dental issues can be a source of embarrassment, causing your child to avoid engaging with their peers. Thankfully, you can ensure they smile confidently and avoid school absences by combating tooth decay.
Preventing Tooth Day in Children
Although tooth day is preventable, it’s 5 times more common than asthma. As the leading chronic health condition for American children, it is important parents are proactive about their child’s dental health to keep cavities at bay.
There are several factors that contribute to tooth decay, such as poor oral hygiene habits, frequent sugar consumption, or missing routine dental appointments. You can help to ensure your child’s smile stays healthy to prevent unexpected dental visits by following a few simple tips:
- Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush that accommodates the size of your child’s mouth and has earned the ADA’s Seal of Acceptance.
- Choose a fluoride toothpaste to support strong enamel.
- Have your child brush their teeth for at least 2 minutes twice a day.
- Around the age of 6, encourage nightly flossing.
- Limit their consumption of sugary foods and drinks.
- Encourage a balanced diet.
- Schedule routine appointments for a cleaning and checkup.
Besides caring for your child’s smile at home, semi annual dental appointments are equally important. They allow their dentist to monitor their oral health to detect any areas of concern while they are still small. Quick intervention prevents them from turning into a bigger issue that might cause your child to miss school throughout the year. By keeping their teeth and gums healthy, you can ensure your child has everything they need for academic success.
About Dr. Gabriel A. Nossa
Dr. Gabriel A. Nossa has completed advanced training in general dentistry and undergoes many hours of continuing education each year to offer superior care. He can help his patients achieve optimal oral health through a focus on prevention. If it’s time for your family’s routine visits, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.