Now that August has arrived, many American families are putting together their back-to-school preparations. You might be busy helping your kid pick out the perfect outfit for the first day of the new semester or purchasing all the school supplies on their list.
But don’t forget that having a healthy smile can also help set them up for success in the coming year. Continue reading to learn more about how their dental condition impacts their grades and how you can help them improve!
Does My Child’s Oral Health Impact Their Academic Success?
Would you be surprised to learn that recent research has established that there is a strong correlation between a kid’s oral status and their academic performance? Common concerns like cavities, gum disease, and injured enamel can impact more than just their teeth and gums.
For instance, one study published in the American Journal of Public Health shared that children missing school due to dental issues were four times more likely to have a lower grade point average.
How Do Dental Problems Impact My Child’s Grades?
There are several ways that your child’s dental well-being can potentially impact their academic performance. For instance, if they’re out of school for dental visits, they’re likelier to miss out on important educational milestones during a critical time of their lives where they should be focused on learning, or they might miss important projects, discussions, or deadlines.
Furthermore, many teachers also grade students on participation. If your child feels self-conscious about their smile or is in pain, they may be less likely to raise their hand or speak up when needed. They might also struggle to pay attention consistently, which can sometimes lead to disciplinary actions that likely won’t do anything to help their confidence or their grades.
How Can I Improve My Child’s Dental Health?
Thankfully, you can proactively protect your child’s smile to support their academic success throughout the year. For example, you can minimize their sugar consumption by packing snacks and lunches with wholesome foods, like raw fruits and veggies. You can also implement an at-home dental hygiene routine that consists of brushing and flossing both morning and night to remove plaque and bacteria that contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.
Finally, scheduling a standard exam and cleaning with their dentist every six months allows their provider to catch and treat any areas of concern to keep their teeth and gums happy and healthy all year!
About the Practice
Families at South Short Dental Care benefit from a husband-and-wife dental team committed to helping them build and maintain resilient teeth and gums to prevent oral issues. Drs. Dory and Khalida Stutman collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet the needs of people of all ages at one convenient location, including routine checkups. Their caring approach is combined with advanced technology to improve patient comfort while delivering accurate results meant to last. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (516) 798-3808.