The back-to-school season is a blur of new backpacks, sharpened pencils, and updated class schedules. But there’s one item that often gets overlooked on the supply list: your child’s dental health. A healthy smile affects everything from concentration in class to confidence on the playground. And with a new school year starting, it’s the perfect time to make sure your child’s teeth are protected.
Here’s a simple dental checklist to help your family start the school year off right.
1. Schedule a Back-to-School Checkup
Summer treats, late nights, and relaxed routines can take a toll on teeth. A professional cleaning and exam before school starts ensures your child begins the year with a clean slate.
Dr. Mana Shoeybi and our team at Highland Family Dental Care will check for any cavities, evaluate your child’s bite, and make sure their teeth are developing properly. It’s also a great opportunity to reinforce good brushing and flossing habits before the busy school routine kicks in.
Think of it like a physical for their smile. A quick visit now can prevent bigger problems later.
2. Protect Their Smile on the Field
If your child plays sports, whether it’s soccer, football, basketball, or even gymnastics, a mouthguard is essential. Mouthguards cushion blows to the face that could otherwise chip teeth, injure lips, or even cause concussions. According to the American Dental Association, athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries without a mouthguard.
We strongly recommend custom-fitted mouthguards over the boil-and-bite versions you find at the store. Custom guards fit better, stay in place, and offer superior protection. They’re comfortable enough that your child will actually want to wear them.
At Highland Family Dental Care, we take impressions of your child’s teeth and create a mouthguard that fits perfectly. It’s a small investment that can save you from costly dental emergencies down the road.
3. Consider Dental Sealants for Extra Cavity Protection
Even the most diligent brushers miss spots. The grooves on the chewing surfaces of back teeth are notoriously hard to clean. Food particles and plaque get trapped in those tiny crevices, and cavities often follow. Dental sealants are a simple, painless solution.
A sealant is a thin, protective coating that Dr. Shoeybi paints onto the chewing surfaces of molars. It fills in those deep grooves and creates a smooth surface that’s much easier to clean. The process takes just a few minutes per tooth and can prevent up to 80% of cavities in molars.
Sealants are especially beneficial for children and teenagers, whose brushing habits may still be developing. They’re typically applied to permanent molars as soon as they come in, usually around age six and again around age twelve.
Best of all, sealants are covered by most dental insurance plans and can last for years with proper care.
4. Pack a Tooth-Friendly Lunch
What goes into your child’s lunchbox matters. Sugary drinks and sticky snacks feed the bacteria that cause cavities. Instead, consider:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables like apple slices, carrots, or celery
- Cheese or yogurt for calcium
- Water instead of juice or sports drinks
- Whole grain crackers or bread
And don’t forget to remind your child to drink water throughout the day. It helps wash away food particles and keeps their mouth hydrated.
5. Re-Establish the Nighttime Routine
Summer often means later bedtimes and skipped routines. As school starts, it’s the perfect time to reset. Make sure your child is brushing for two full minutes twice a day and flossing at least once.
For younger children, a little supervision goes a long way. And for older kids, a simple reminder can make all the difference.
Start the Year with a Healthy Smile
A new school year brings new opportunities. Give your child the gift of a healthy, confident smile by checking these items off your list.
Call Highland Family Dental Care at 301-635-4619 to schedule your child’s back-to-school appointment. We’re here to help your family shine all year long.