As the hustle and bustle of the new school year kicks off, you may be starting to get back into the groove of things. Your child may not be excited that summer is closing, but it’s time for them to get back to classes and pass each test they have! Aside from helping them with homework, did you know that keeping up with good oral health can set them up for academic success? Keep reading to learn what you should know.
How Do Dental Problems Affect My Child’s Grades?
In short, issues with your child’s gums and teeth can lead to poor grades. It can make them feel a bit self-conscious about their smile, so they may have trouble raising their hand to answer questions or participating in group activities.
Since these problems can’t go away on their own, they will need to be taken to their dentist. It’s more likely for them to be tardy or absent because they will need to have appointments during the day. The American Journal of Public Health conducted a study that, on average, found elementary children miss six days per year. 2.1 of them were related to oral health issues, and they were noticed to be four times more likely to have a lower grade point average!
What Are Common Oral Health Issues for Children?
With dental problems being able to spell trouble, it’s helpful to know which conditions are more common in kids. Cavities may be something that you are already aware of. Your child’s mouth is full of bacteria, like your own, but it has some that can cause complications for their teeth and gums. Certain ones produce acid that erodes their enamel and causes decay, which can spread if left untreated.
Gingivitis, the early stages of gum disease, is also something that you should know about. This is an infection in the soft tissues of their mouth, which can cause inflammation and tenderness.
Ways You Can Improve Your Child’s Oral Health
You might be glad to hear that taking care of your child’s oral health can be an easy feat! Here are some useful tips:
- Help them follow a proper dental hygiene routine. Making sure they brush twice with fluoride toothpaste (to prevent cavities) and floss at least once a day can help remove harmful bacteria in their mouth.
- Encourage healthy eating habits, such as limiting sugary snacks that increase the risk of decay. Following a balanced diet can help support their body’s immune system.
- Keep up with regular checkups with their dentist. They can spot any oral health issues while they are minor and treat them before they cause more problems.
In the end, taking care of your child’s mouth can set them up for academic success this school year. Remember the tips above and help set them up for a report card with all A’s!
About the Practice
At Garland Pediatric Dentistry, you benefit from the compassionate leadership of Dr. Ben Baghai and Dr. Kaveh Ghods. Both are board-certified pediatric dentists, meaning they are committed to keeping your child’s growing smile healthy through routine checkups and cleaning. Using state-of-the-art technology, treatments are more comfortable and effective than ever before. If it’s time for your loved one’s next semi-annual appointment, schedule an appointment for them or call (972) 674-9966.