Fall is just around the corner and summer break is coming to an end. Although the start of the school may look a little different this year, the list of to-dos to prepare seems as long as ever. Amid the hustle and bustle of buying school supplies and setting up extra-curricular activities, it may seem like a good idea to push your child’s dental checkup until after the school year begins. However, your children’s dentist in Ardmore shares five reasons you should reconsider.
Prevent Painful, Costly Dental Emergencies
Cavities have been on the rise since the 1990s, and the numbers don’t show any sign of slowing down. Unfortunately, if tooth decay is left untreated it can lead to several dental emergencies, like abnormal bleeding, excessive swelling, and even tooth loss. However, a preventive trip to the dentist can play a crucial role in early detection and treatment, which can save your child (and your wallet) from painful, costly procedures.
Set Healthy Oral Care Behaviors
Many parents experience difficulties in getting their children to consistently brush and floss their teeth. However, sometimes all it takes is hearing the importance of a solid oral hygiene routine straight from their dentist’s mouth! By scheduling their summer check-up before the school year starts, you can help get their dental regimen on track so their smile can stay in pristine condition.
Healthy Mouths Mean Healthy Grades
When a persistent toothache is causing your child discomfort, they can easily become distracted in class and miss valuable information. Therefore, you must set them up for success by scheduling a checkup before the school year starts to address any red flags or dental damage. Plus, this will prevent you from having to take them out of class for their bi-yearly visit.
Summer Visits Are More Convenient for Your Schedule
Once the school year starts, your schedule becomes jam-packed with extra-curricular activities, homework, play dates, and everything else the season brings. However, summertime means a more flexible calendar for you and your dentist, so it is the perfect time to schedule your child’s checkup! That way, your child’s visit is something you can look forward to instead of something you dread.
Get Ready for Picture Day
The examination component of your child’s bi-yearly visit plays a crucial role in detecting tooth decay, cavities, and other dental damage. However, the professional cleaning will ensure that their smile is in pristine condition for picture day. After all, you want your child’s pearly whites to be the focus of the photo, not stains and discoloration leftover from the summer.
As a parent, setting your child up for success is a top priority. To ensure that they have a strong, healthy, pain-free smile until their next visit, schedule their dental checkup before the summer ends!
About the Author
In addition to earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Oklahoma School of Dentistry, Dr. Jamie Guthrie completed coursework at the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Education. She currently completes over 50 hours of continuing education annually and is a member of multiple reputable organizations, including the American Dental Association. If you would like to speak with her about scheduling your child’s checkup, visit her website or give her a call at 580-224-9600.