It's that time of year again. You're likely busy checking off lists for notebooks, new shoes, and sports physicals. But there's one more essential stop before the first bell rings: the dentist's chair. At Tucker Family Dental, Dr. Danny Jeon and our team want to make sure your child starts the school year with a healthy, pain-free smile.
A back-to-school checkup isn't just about looking for cavities. It's about setting a foundation for the entire year. Dental issues are a leading cause of missed school days, and most of those problems are entirely preventable. By catching small issues now, we'll help your child stay focused on their studies rather than a nagging toothache.
For elementary-aged kids, we focus on growth and hygiene habits. Many parents don't realize that if a child can't tie their shoes tightly and correctly, they usually don't have the motor skills to brush their teeth alone. We recommend parents stay involved in brushing until about age eight.
During these visits, we check for proper tooth eruption, hygiene habits, and the health of placeholder teeth. Here's what we look for:
Establishing a dental home early is a smart financial move, too. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), starting dental visits by age one can lower overall dental costs by 40% over the first five years of a child's life.
As kids get older, their dental needs change. For teens, we're looking at more than just brushing. We're looking at lifestyle factors and long-term health risks that can affect their adult lives.
One major concern today is the rise of vaping. The American Dental Association (ADA, 2019) has warned that vaping isn't a safe alternative to smoking. The chemical aerosols in vapes dry out the mouth and alter the bacteria inside, which can lead to aggressive tooth decay and gum inflammation.
We also use this time to evaluate wisdom teeth. Using digital imaging, we can see if these teeth are likely to become impacted or disrupt previous orthodontic work. If a tooth extraction is necessary, it's much better to handle it during a school break than in the middle of exams.
Finally, we discuss the importance of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. This isn't just a medical talk; it's an oral health talk. This vaccine is a critical tool in preventing oropharyngeal cancers (throat and mouth cancers) later in life, and we're proud to be on the front lines of that conversation.
Don't wait for the September rush to secure your spot. Whether your child needs a routine cleaning or you're concerned about their alignment, we're here to help. Contact our office in Tucker today to schedule your family's back-to-school visits with Dr. Jeon.
