Crystal Lake Dental's Hot topics: Back to School checkups

Back to school checkups

It is that time of the year to get the children ready for school.

Clothes, books, and other supplies are on the shopping list. It is also time the schedule visits to the doctor and dentist and the eye doctor for many students.

We at Crystal Lake Dental Associates know the importance of a regular dental exam and routine cleaning and care means less dental problems in the future.

We check not only for decay, but developing problems like growth and form of the teeth and jaws. A review of dental hygiene and nutrition is important to dental health. After a thorough cleaning, we recommend fluoride is a special form “Vanish” to give long lasting protection. We also go over home care and check soft tissues for proper position to prevent future problems. We use a DIAGNOdent laser cavity detection system to look for decay below the surface where x-rays and even a visual exam with an explorer can miss cavities. We use digital x-rays with very low radiation as another safe diagnostic tool. We will recommend sealants on permanent back teeth in order to prevent future decay. Sealants are one of the most effective ways to prevent decay in the deep grooves of back teeth.

Children entering preschool, kindergarten, 2^nd grade, 6^th grade, 9^th grade, transferring into a new school, or participating in sports activities are required to have various examinations or physicals prior to starting school. A list of the examinations is included on the link below. Some of the common exam forms as well as waiver forms can be printed off here by clicking on the appropriate link. To check into the school system you are attending in the area, I have included links to the local school systems in McHenry county web sites.