Back-to-School Checklists Should Include a Dental Visit

ATLANTA, Aug. 1, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As families prepare for the upcoming school year, dentists from national children's dental provider Kool Smiles have an important reminder for parents: Remember to schedule back-to-school dental checkups for the kids.

"Health screenings and exams – including dental checkups – are an important part of ensuring children get the school year off to a great start," said Dr. Dale Mayfield, Chief Dental Officer for Kool Smiles. "Good dental health is closely linked to academic success, and a back-to-school dental checkup is the perfect opportunity to reinforce positive brushing and flossing habits, as well as identify any potential dental health problems before the school year starts."

According to the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is the leading chronic disease among young children. Nationwide, about one in five children between the ages of five and 11 have untreated tooth decay. Untreated dental problems can lead to difficulty eating, speaking and sleeping, as well as poor nutrition, low self-esteem and other health problems.  

Children with poor dental health can face serious setbacks at school, including pain that can make it difficult to concentrate and learn. Several studies have shown that poor dental health is associated with lower grade point averages and more missed days at school.  More than 51 million school hours are lost every year due to tooth decay.

Scheduling routine dental visits, practicing good oral healthcare at home and establishing healthy habits early on are the best ways to ensure a lifetime of happy smiles. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children see the dentist about every six months, starting when the first baby tooth appears.

To ensure that children maintain healthy and happy smiles throughout the school year, Kool Smiles dentists have the following tips for parents:

• Schedule a Dental Visit: With all the commotion around back-to-school season, it's easy to forget to schedule a dental check-up for the kids. However, regular dental visits are an important part of preventive dental health. During the visit, a clinical dental team will likely clean your child's teeth, check for cavities, and make sure your child is keeping up with his or her brushing and flossing habits.
• Cut Down on Sugary Snacks and Drinks: Kids may have a sweet tooth, but all that sugar can damage your child's teeth. During and after school hours, parents should moderate their kids' intake of sugary foods, especially candy and soda. Instead suggest healthier snack options, like pretzels and flavored water.  
• Practice the 3-2-1 Rule: To keep kids' teeth healthy between dental visits, families are encouraged to practice the 3-2-1 Rule at home: Eat three (3) healthy meals, brush two (2) times (morning and night), and floss at least one (1) time every day.

As a leading national children's dental health provider, Kool Smiles' mission is to improve lives by providing high quality dental care in a fun, compassionate environment. Kool Smiles dentists are proud to offer care to kids and adults with almost any insurance plan, including State Children's Health Insurance Programs (SCHIP), Medicaid and TRICARE.

To find a Kool Smiles dental office location near you or to schedule an appointment, please call (855) 273-5665 or visit www.mykoolsmiles.com.

SOURCE Kool Smiles