As the summer winds down and the back-to-school season approaches, parents are busy checking off items on their school supply lists. While pencils, notebooks, and new clothes are important, there’s one crucial area that shouldn’t be overlooked: your child’s dental health. A healthy smile can boost your child’s confidence and help them start the school year on the right foot. Here’s a comprehensive back-to-school dental checklist to ensure your child’s teeth are ready for the new academic year.

• Schedule a Dental Checkup
  • Why it’s important: A regular dental checkup is essential for detecting any potential issues early, such as cavities, gum disease, or misalignment. Addressing these problems before school starts can prevent your child from experiencing discomfort or missing school due to dental appointments later in the year.
  • Tip: Schedule the appointment at least a month before school starts to allow time for any necessary treatments.
• Get a Professional Cleaning
  • Why it’s important: Even with regular brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas. A professional cleaning removes this buildup, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease.
  • Tip: Consider asking your dentist about fluoride treatment during the cleaning to provide extra protection against cavities.
• Stock Up on Dental Supplies
  • Why it’s important: Having the right tools is key to maintaining good oral hygiene. Ensure your child has a new toothbrush (replace every three months), toothpaste with fluoride, and floss or interdental brushes.
  • Tip: Let your child choose a fun toothbrush or toothpaste with their favorite character to make brushing more enjoyable.
• Review Proper Brushing and Flossing Techniques
  • Why it’s important: Even if your child has been brushing and flossing for years, a refresher on proper techniques can be helpful. Make sure they brush for two minutes, twice a day, and floss once daily to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth.
  • Tip: Use a timer or play a two-minute song to ensure your child brushes for the full duration.
• Check for Signs of Tooth Decay
  • Why it’s important: Early signs of tooth decay include white spots, small brown or black spots, and sensitivity. Catching decay early can prevent more serious problems down the road.
  • Tip: During your child’s dental checkup, ask the dentist to point out any areas to watch and discuss preventive measures.
• Consider Dental Sealants
  • Why it’s important: Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where cavities are most likely to develop. Sealants can be a great preventive measure, especially for children prone to cavities.
  • Tip: Ask your dentist if sealants are appropriate for your child and when they should be applied.
• Pack a Tooth-Friendly Lunch
  • Why it’s important: What your child eats can significantly impact their dental health. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that can lead to cavities. Instead, pack a lunch with healthy options like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and water.
  • Tip: Include cheese, yogurt, or other dairy products that are rich in calcium and help strengthen teeth.
• Prepare for Dental Emergencies
  • Why it’s important: Accidents can happen, especially during sports or recess. Be prepared by knowing what to do in case of a dental emergency, like a knocked-out tooth or a cracked tooth.
  • Tip: Keep your dentist’s contact information handy and educate your child on what to do in case of an emergency.
• Check Orthodontic Appliances
  • Why it’s important: If your child has braces, retainers, or other orthodontic appliances, make sure they are in good condition and fit properly. Broken or ill-fitting appliances can cause discomfort and affect your child’s oral health.
  • Tip: Schedule an orthodontic checkup if needed to adjust or repair appliances before school starts.
• Discuss Mouthguards for Sports
  • Why it’s important: If your child participates in sports, a mouthguard is essential to protect their teeth from injury. Custom-fitted mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort. As a 2 time Ironman Finisher, Dr. Patel understands the importance of keeping active which is why Churchill Meadows offers $25 CUSTOM SPORTSGUARD for everyone.
  • Tip: Talk to your dentist about getting a custom mouthguard that fits your child’s mouth perfectly.

A bright, healthy smile can give your child the confidence they need to succeed in school. By following this back-to-school dental checklist, you’ll be setting them up for a year of good oral health and fewer dental problems. Don’t wait until the school year is in full swing. Please feel free to consult with Dr Pravir Patel a family dental professional in Mississauga for personalized and trusted advice and guidance regarding your specific dental needs. We can be reached at (905) 814 – 4001 or smile@cmdc.ms to schedule a dental consultation.