As the end of summer nears, it means back to school for the kiddos. A new year, a new grade, and new school supplies are all reasons for kids and parents alike to be excited (and maybe a little nervous). But the start of any school year should also be a sign that it’s time to see your pediatric dentist in The Woodlands. After all, good dental health often means more time in the classroom and less time spent on unexpected oral health problems.
The Top Reason Kids Miss School? Dental Problems.
Did you know that the number one reason kids miss school is due to dental problems? It’s true! According to the National Children’s Oral Health Survey, around 8.6 million children ages six to twelve miss school because of an oral health issue. But that’s not all. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that more than 51 million hours of school are missed each and every year because of dental problems. That’s a lot of time out of the classroom and in the dental chair.
3 Common Dental Problems That Can Keep Kids Out of School
Dental problems can be disruptive to a child’s education, especially if they cause pain or discomfort. When a child is in pain, it makes it difficult for them to focus on lessons and classwork. So it’s important to recognize when your child could be experiencing a dental problem and to see your pediatric dentist in The Woodlands. Some of the most common dental problems in kids are:
- Cavities
More than 40% of children between the ages of two and eleven will get a cavity. Many times, when a cavity is caught early, your child won’t even know it’s there and won’t have any symptoms. But if a cavity isn’t diagnosed and not treated, it can cause discomfort and sometimes pain.
- Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a unique feeling that shoots zings of pain up through the tooth roots. Unfortunately, it doesn’t only affect adults. Tooth sensitivity in kids can be caused by many things such as cavities, new teeth erupting, enamel erosion, teeth grinding, or cracked teeth.
- Emergencies
Kids are accident-prone, and their teeth are no exception. Knocked-out teeth, cracked teeth, and chipped or broken teeth can happen at any time and anywhere, from the playground to after-school sports. While many emergencies are obvious, some are hard to detect and can lead to lingering pain.
Protect Teeth & Keep Kids in School
While accidents and emergencies are unpredictable, other dental problems can be prevented through good oral hygiene at home and by seeing your pediatric dentist in The Woodlands every six months for checkups. Some of the best ways you can help at home are:
- Avoiding sticky, sugary sweets as much as possible
- Drinking plenty of water
- Make sure your kids brush and floss regularly
- Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables
Your pediatric dentist is always here to help you and your kids with any dental concerns you have and will do everything we can to keep kids in school. If it’s been longer than six months since your child’s last dental visit, schedule an appointment today.
