Set Your Child Up for Academic Success with a Healthy Smile

As a parent, you likely do everything you can to encourage your child to take good care of their teeth. While maintaining good oral health is certainly a primary reason, there are other benefits beyond that. Did you know that a healthy smile can set your child up for academic success? One report from the Office of Surgeon General found that more than 51 million school hours are lost each year to dental-related conditions. Your children’s dentist in Beachwood shares a few oral care tips to help your little one stay in school.  

Establish an Oral Hygiene Routine

Tooth decay is one of the most chronic childhood diseases – it’s four times more common than asthma! Luckily, it’s easily preventable with proper dental care. Make sure your child brushes their teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, and don’t forget to remind them to floss daily! Encourage them to brush and floss at the same time every day to help establish a routine. Eventually, these habits will simply become a part of their day – just like getting dressed for school or putting their pajamas on right before bed.

Make Brushing Fun for Your Child

If your child dreads brushing their teeth, don’t worry – there are many ways you can make it fun for them! Next time you go shopping for oral care essentials, bring your little one along and allow them to pick out their own toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss. They can choose a toothbrush that lights up, plays music, or has a special character on it. It’ll give them something to look forward to every time they brush!

Pack a Healthy Lunch

It may surprise you to learn that lunchtime is one of the most important parts of your child’s day. Their food choices can leave a lasting mark on their smile. To keep their oral health in good shape, consider packing your little one a lunch full of nutritious foods. If they eat at the school cafeteria, teach them how to make healthy choices before the school year starts.

Encourage Your Child to Wear a Mouthguard

Does your child participate in organized sports or other activities during the school year? Make sure they wear a mouthguard every time they play. Mouthguards protect the mouth against oral injuries, such as chipped or broken teeth, fractured roots, and cut lips. They can be purchased at any sporting goods store or ordered from your dentist.

Schedule a Dentist Appointment

As a parent, you know the importance of taking your child for routine checkups twice a year. Well, the beginning of the school year is the perfect time for a bi-annual visit! It allows your dentist to detect, prevent, or treat any issues that could become complications down the line. You can have peace of mind knowing there are no present issues that can interfere with your child’s academics.

Is your little one ready for school? Help them kick off the school year with a bright, healthy smile by following the tips outlined above!

About the Practice

At Orange Place Family Dentistry, we are a family-friendly dental office dedicated to providing personalized, exceptional, compassionate dental care. We use the latest techniques, materials, and technologies to help you and your family achieve and maintain your best smiles. Before school starts, bring your child in for a routine checkup so our dentist can ensure their oral health won’t be a problem during the year. Visit our website or call to schedule an appointment.