Back to School-Crystal Lake Dentist

Back to school, back to the dentist.

Back to school planning

At this time of year, many of you are making a back-to-school checklist for your kids. New clothes and school supplies are a given. But have you given any thought to their dental care?

Tooth decay is one of the biggest health issues among children, accounting for over 51 million hours of school time lost every year. What’s more, poor dental health in youth can lead to chronic problems like discomfort, difficulty chewing and the need for painful and expensive procedures down the road.

Child dental exams an important of back-to-school plans

An annual back-to-school dental checkup is an easy way to help prevent these problems. It’s so important, Illinois actually require children to get a dental exam before entering certain grades in school. Illinois requires a dental exam before entering kindergarten, 2^nd grade and 6^th grade.

For a copy of the Illinoisstate regulations follow this link.

If you want to download a copy of the Illinois State dental exam formfollow this link and print the form.

Regular dental exams do more than catch tooth decay. They also let us see if teeth are growing in properly, monitor the results of their brushing and flossing techniques (and give lessons, if necessary), and apply fluoride treatments or protective sealants that can prevent decay before it happens. If your kids play sports or engage in other activities that might cause oral injuries, we can fit them for protective mouth guards.

Mouthguards are important in protecting your teeth during sports

If your kids are in college, planning checkups during school breaks can ensure that they’re receiving regular professional dental care. And even if they’re too young for school, your kids are probably old enough to go to the dentist. The ADA recommends babies start seeing a dentist when their first tooth comes in, usually when they’re between 6 and 12 months old.

So while you’re making back-to-school plans, plan on bringing your kids in for a visit. And for extra credit, try these fun tips for sending them to school with a smile: 

Pick up dental supplies during back-to-school shopping

1.                         Buy new toothbrushes: While they’re getting new notebooks, pens and other supplies, why not let them pick out a new toothbrush? While you’re at it, pick up two — one for home and one to bring to school.

2.                         Make a dental care kit for school: To encourage them to brush after lunch and snacks, buy a zippered plastic-lined bag and include a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss.

3.                         Pack dental-friendly lunches and snacks: Fruit, nuts, string cheese and bottled water are all good choices. Avoid sticky foods like raisins or fruit leather, as they can cause cavities.

4.                         Start a reward system: Encourage good dental exams like you encourage good grades — with a prize like a night at the movies, a new video game or other coveted item.

Add a reward system to your routine for better dental checkups

Need to make an appointment for your kids, or even yourself?

 Simply call 815 459 2202 today.

 Dr. Neal answers all of your questions about Back-to-School exams at Crystal Lake Dental Associates.

Phillip C. Neal DDSCrystal Lake Dental Associates280 B Memorial CourtCrystal Lake, Illinois 60014            815 459 2202      

www.DrNeal.com

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