5 Questions to Ask at Your Child’s Back-To-School Dental Visit

While not all schools require a dental exam before the start of school, it is a great time to schedule regular check-ups. Your child should see the dentist every six months. Scheduling a dental visit before school starts allows for dental health without missing school time.

After the summer is over is also a great time for your child’s dental visit due to what the summer holds. Typically during the summer routines fall by the wayside, and your child’s dental hygiene may have been lacking. If your child went to summer camp, they probably didn’t brush while they were there. In addition, more treats and goodies are usually eaten during the summer months, which can lead to cavities.

There are several things you should ask at your child’s back-to-school dental visit. Asking these questions will help your child receive the best care possible. It will also help you to understand more fully what is required for good dental health.

Is my child in good dental health? It is important that you understand fully the state of your child’s teeth. When the dentist provides the answer it will likely lead to more questions. If it is not good, what needs to be done? What can you do at home? If they’re dental health is good, what can you do to keep it that way? Getting all of these questions will help your child’s dental hygiene as the year wears on.

Should my child get a cleaning? The answer to this question should be a resounding Yes! Your child should receive a cleaning at every dental check-up, about every six months. The cleaning helps to remove bacteria and build-up that may be missed in regular brushings. It can also help remove stains from the teeth, giving your child a smile that won’t make them self-conscious at school.

Should we get x-rays? Your child may or may not need x-rays. The purpose of a dental x-ray is to make sure that teeth are developing properly. They are also used to ensure there is no decay between the teeth. These are issues that can cause a lot of problems if not caught early. If your child’s teeth are reasonably healthy, and there have been no significant changes since their last visit, you probably won’t be receiving x-rays.

Should I bring my child’s mouth guard to the appointment? Yes! Definitely have your dentist check the mouth guard for wear and tear, as well as fit. If your child has lost teeth, gotten new permanent teeth, or has had a growth spurt, your child might need a new mouth guard. Bring it with you to your visit and make sure that it still fits properly and is in good condition to prevent accidents.

I’ve heard of Sealants. What are they, and should my child have them? Sealants are made from plastic and other materials. They are applied to the molars, or chewing teeth, after the permanent molars come in. These sealants are not necessary, but are usually recommended. The purpose is to prevent tooth decay in hard to reach areas that the tooth brush cannot go. Your child will get molars at around six and twelve years of age. Your dentist will let you know if it’s time for sealants, and if they are recommended.

Now that you know the most important questions to ask, call right away and schedule your back to school visit with your child’s dentist. We will be more than happy to help you set up an appointment and make sure that your child is fully prepared for the coming year.