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Now that August has arrived, many families are preparing their kids for the upcoming school year. You might be busy purchasing new clothes or classroom supplies, registering them for after-school activities, and making many other important preparations.
But did you know that you can also set your child up for success by scheduling a routine checkup and cleaning with their dentist before the new semester begins? Continue reading to learn more about how their dental health can potentially affect their academic performance and how their provider can help!
Does My Child’s Oral Health Impact Their Grades?
Although brushing and flossing twice daily can prevent many common oral issues, like cavities and gum disease, there’s no guarantee that your child will never develop a problem. Bacteria in their mouth can thrive and form plaque in places that are difficult to see or reach, like between two teeth or behind their molars, and cause harm.
Unfortunately, recent research has revealed a strong correlation between kids’ oral health and their academic performance. According to a study published in the American Journal of Public Health, children with dental problems missed an additional 2.1 days of school on average, making them four times more likely to have a lower grade point average (GPA).
How Do Dental Problems Impact Academic Performance?
If your child has developed oral issues that require their dentist’s attention, they’re more likely to be taken out of school for appointments. That means they might miss important lessons, presentations, assignments, or due dates, which can directly affect their grades. Too many absences can interrupt their learning and development during critical times when they should be focused on building a strong foundation in reading, writing, and mathematical skills.
Furthermore, if they have a toothache or feel unwell, they might struggle to pay attention or participate in class, which can sometimes result in disciplinary actions that might otherwise have been avoided.
How Can I Improve My Child’s Dental Health?
Thankfully, proper preventive care can help avoid many common dental problems so they can continue to focus on their schoolwork. For example, you can minimize their sugar consumption and provide more wholesome snacks that support their oral well-being, like dairy products full of calcium, or citrus fruits high in vitamin C.
You can also encourage them to thoroughly (but gently) brush and floss their teeth twice daily to remove residue buildup that can cause cavities or periodontal problems. Finally, scheduling a dental exam and cleaning before school resumes ensures that they’re starting the year with a healthy smile!
About the Practice
At Laketown Family Dental, you and your loved ones benefit from a husband-and-wife dental team that is dedicated to helping people of all ages build and maintain happy, healthy teeth and gums. Drs. Ariel and Eric Heisser collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your family’s needs under one roof, including standard preventive care. They combine a compassionate approach with advanced technology for comfortable, accurate treatment results you can trust. You can request an appointment on the website or call (231) 737-2273.