Did you know that an estimated 42% of children between 2 and 11 years old have cavities in their primary teeth? You might not think tooth decay in baby teeth matters because they eventually fall out anyway. However, dental concerns now can potentially impact their permanent teeth before they erupt, affecting the future of their smile.
Furthermore, having dental problems can potentially negatively impact their grades at school. Continue reading to learn more about how your child’s oral condition can affect their academic performance and how you to help set them up for success!
What Are Some Common Dental Health Issues for Children?
Your kid’s mouth is full of bacteria, some of which are harmful to their teeth and gums. Certain microbes can thrive and produce acids that erode their enamel, causing decay that can spread to neighboring pearly whites, their connective tissues, and their jawbone if left untreated. This unfortunately increases the likelihood of sustaining additional decay or damage that can also result in aches or infection.
Not only that, but children are also prone to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Germs can infiltrate their connective tissues, causing inflammation and tenderness until it’s addressed.
How Do Oral Problems Impact My Child’s Grades?
Did you know that the condition of their grin can interfere with their academic progress? Problems with their teeth and gums can make them feel self-conscious about their appearance, which can keep them from raising their hand to contribute during class. Their teacher might assume they’re inattentive or unwilling to participate as a result.
Not only that, but they’re more likely to have absences and tardies that can affect their grades if they’re frequently out of class due to dental aches or appointments. One study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that, on average, most elementary school children miss a total of 6 days per year, and about 2.1 of those are attributed to dental concerns. These kids were about four times more likely to have a lower grade point average than students without oral issues.
How Can I Improve My Child’s Dental Condition?
School is out of session for the summer, but it won’t be long until the fall semester begins. If you’re looking for ways to help your child feel successful in the coming year, you can start by taking them to their pediatric dentist!
Routine checkups and cleanings every six months allow their provider to identify and treat any areas of concern before they can progress. For instance, they can strengthen thinning enamel with topical fluoride or sealants to prevent cavities. Also, implementing a consistent at-home dental hygiene routine of brushing and flossing twice daily helps clean harmful plaque and bacteria from your kid’s mouth, so they’re less likely to have problems.
Taking the time to invest in proper preventive care can help set your child up for academic success in the coming school year!
About the Practice
At Sprout Dentistry for Kids, your family benefits from two board-certified pediatric dentists passionate about helping children build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. Dr. Chan and Dr. Yoo are both highly accomplished individuals and collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services for still-developing teeth and gums. They strive to provide outstanding treatments using state-of-the-art equipment in an engaging and educational environment, so your child feels comfortable while learning the value of caring for their smile. You can request an appointment on the website or call (469) 663-0098.