Back-to-School Dental Check-Up For Kids and Teens

Kids and teens are back in school, and for many, it’s time for a dental checkup and cleaning. After a summer of treats and fluctuating schedules, regular routines can fall by the wayside. Booking a fall cleaning early, before school and activity schedules fully take over, is key to getting back on track with good oral health.

Parent’s Guide to Starting the School Year With a Healthy Smile

Focused on preventive dentistry, Dentists at Beddington Heights in Calgary is dedicated to patient-first care. Our practice is centred on making sure your child feels comfortable in the chair during cleanings. Less anxiety in the chair means a more thorough exam and a pleasant experience that your child will remember for the next visit. Starting with the basics for a back-to-school dental checkup is a must. 

Start With a Dental Exam

Your kid’s regular brushing and flossing routine may need to get back on track with a dental checkup and cleaning visit, where our dentists do what they do best. At your child’s next dental appointment, expect the dentist to:

• Remove tartar and plaque buildup (that brushing/flossing may miss).
• Look for signs of tooth decay and cavities.
• Perform X-Rays for overall bone health.
• Do a visual exam of the mouth to check jaw alignment and jaw joint issues.
• View the gums for signs of disease.
• Watch for bite issues and teeth grinding.

Everyone needs reminders and lists to keep their life on track. Good dental habits don’t start overnight. A dental checklist helps many families get their schedules in sync and keeps everyone healthy – as a healthy mouth often leads to a healthy body. 

Dental Hygiene Checklist for the School Year

While it seems simple, some people are just too busy to visit the dentist. Here is a quick checklist to use at home for biannual dental visits to help the whole family stay on track and make dentist visits easier.

• Visit the dentist for a cleaning/checkup.
• Replace your toothbrush for a new one. 
• Replace mouthguards (if needed).
• If you have a preteen or teen, talk to the dentist about orthodontic work, like braces and aligners.
  

While great oral habits start at home, regular dental cleanings and checkups are vital to keeping your kid’s teeth and gums healthy for life.

Smart Snacking and School Lunch Tips

It’s important to start the school year with healthy habits, no matter what your kids ate during the warmer months. Starting a new grade at school can be combined with starting a healthier food plan – if that’s what your kids need. Encouraging your kids to eat more fruits and vegetables and, of course, less sugar is important for their dental health. A balanced diet also supports energy levels and your children’s overall health.

Consider Orthodontic Evaluations

Your kid or teen may be ready for braces or aligners now, or they may require them in a few years. Talk to your dentist about whether your kids need their teeth straightened, whether they think they should wait, or whether they don’t need them.  

Ready to Book a Visit?

With the cooler temperatures right around the corner, and signs of fall creeping up, it’s a good reminder to book an appointment with us. Our crew at Dentists at Beddington Heights looks forward to seeing you again or meeting you for the first time. Don’t delay – Book an appointment today!