As you prepare your children for the hustle and bustle of the school year, health concerns can easily fall under the radar. You’re looking for back-to-school gear, getting to know your kid’s teachers, and signing up for after-school activities. However, tooth care isn’t the thing you want to let slip through the cracks. 

It’s important to get your children into the habit of regular dental checkups early so it becomes a routine for them. Many kids will resist coming in for their dental appointments, so it helps to start training them early that there is nothing to fear and that teeth cleanings are a regular part of growing up. 

Working with Resistance

If you do find that your child is resistant or afraid of the dentist, try to make dental visits into a game. Maybe going in for a checkup means receiving some kind of prize or reward, or maybe they’ll bring a certain toy or game with them to enjoy in the waiting room. Creating positive associations is key for reducing stress and soothing any uncertainty your child may feel. 

Another strategy for dealing with resistance is to pay attention to timing. Especially for younger children, time of day can determine their mood and how patient they are. Scheduling a visit in the morning or post-nap can help smooth any friction. In addition, allowing your child to eat a small meal before a dental visit is ideal. This way, they won’t be hungry or exhausted in an already-stressful situation.

Keeping Track of Development

Your child’s teeth and jaw are still developing, and a pediatric dentist can track their development over time to make sure all is well. Often, when your child’s teeth are growing in, they will have issues with overcrowding or gapped teeth. This is normal, but does require monitoring, individualized attention, and regular oral care. 

Just because children are young and their teeth are freshly growing in doesn’t make them any less susceptible to cavities and plaque build-up. In fact, a penchant for sugary sweets and irregular cleanings can make your children even more prone to tooth decay, which sets their dental hygiene off on the wrong foot. 

In addition, many things can impact the health of your child’s teeth, including:

• Jaw clenching
• Teeth grinding
• Pacifiers
• Sticky candies
• Nail biting 

A back-to-school dental checkup will ensure the health of your children’s teeth and gums while staving off things like gum disease. If your child has any chipped teeth or cavities, this is also something you’ll want to handle right away.

Your child’s confidence and comfort depend on both the health and aesthetics of their teeth. As you ease into your back-to-school routine this September, make sure regular brushing, flossing, and checkups are a part of it. 

Our team of dental experts is here to serve. If you’re seeking a Yardley pediatric dentist, look no further than Yardley Dental Arts. Our affordable exams, x-rays, and cleanings are available for both children and adults.