The Tribune

By Dr Tamika Ferguson

It’s that time of year again, where parents are making a list of items their children will need to go back to school. Books, pens, pencils, school uniforms and shoes are just some items on the back-to-school list, but one item often forgotten is a dental check-up.

Every child wants to look his or her best when heading back to school, from a fancy backpack to a new haircut, but one must not overlook the most visible feature: their smile.

Although dental visits are important throughout the year, back-to-school time is a key visit your child should not miss.

The most chronic disease found in school-age children is cavities.

It has been found that dental disease is one of the main reasons children are absent from school throughout the year.

It is important your child visit the dentist because the school-age years are vital due to children losing baby teeth and their permanent teeth erupting.

Further, if your child has cavities this will be corrected before it affects your child’s ability to perform necessary tasks such as eating, sleeping, and drinking.

By visiting the dentist you are taking preventative steps to ward off childhood decay and your child will learn the correct way to protect their teeth not only during the school year but for the rest of their lives.

One of the first things people notice about an individual is their smile.

A good smile helps to create a positive self-image and all parents should want that for their children.

Back-to-school is a good time to incorporate good oral health habits into your child’s daily routine.

This new oral care routine for your child should include:

• Regular dental visits

Your child’s dentist will promote proper oral hygiene techniques which will reduce your child’s chances of tooth decay. Further, the dentist can assist in motivating the child by providing positive feedback. The dentist will also detect anything wrong within the oral cavity before it escalates into the child losing a tooth.

• Establishing a daily brushing and flossing routine

Children should brush their teeth twice daily, in the morning and before bed. It is up to the parent to ensure the child is brushing and to monitor their brushing technique.

At a young age, some parents may have to brush their child’s teeth for them until they are able to do so properly. Flossing is also very important. Once your child’s teeth are in contact, they should be flossing between these teeth at least once daily. If a brushing and flossing routine is established from early it will gradually become a way of life.

• Eating healthy lunches and snacks

Parents must also teach their children to eat healthy. By eating healthy foods (fruits and vegetables) and cutting back on sugary foods and drinks, your child’s teeth have less interaction with sugar.

Also, increasing their water intake is a must.

Your child may have the latest name brand shoes and school supplies to start the new school year, but does he/she have a healthy mouth?

Parents, if you have not scheduled your child’s back-to-school dental check-up, it’s time to call your dentist today!