5 Questions to Ask at Your Child’s Back-to-School Dental Visit
School will be back in session before you know it, which is a perfect time to get a dental check up. One, some schools require a back-to-school dental exam. It’s also a great time to help get back on track if some of your child’s dental habits fell away during the summer, when normal routines can go out the window.
Here are a few questions to ask at your child’s next dental appointment:
How is my child’s overall dental health?
Looking at the big picture of your child’s mouth, including teeth and gums, a dentist should check to make sure the teeth are lining up correctly, your child’s bite is in good shape (in case orthodonic issues arise). They are also making sure baby teeth are progressing like they should, and adult teeth are lining up properly.
Will my child get a cleaning today?
Even if your child brushes twice a day, it’s not possible to get rid of all the bacteria that can lead to cavities, that’s why it is important to insist on getting a thorough cleaning from the hygenist. Aprofessional cleaning goes a long way toward removing cavity-causing bacteria and helps to keep gum tissue healthy.
Does my child need an x-ray?
X-rays help your dentist see how your child’s teeth are developing and make sure the tooth roots are healthy. They also are used to see if there is any tooth decay between your child’s teeth. If an x-ray hasn’t been done in a while, it would be important to do them as soon as possible.
Does my child need sealants?
Sealants can be another way to keep your child from getting cavities. A sealant is a thin, protective coating (made from plastic or other dental materials) that your dentist can place on the chewing surfaces of your child’s permanent back teeth (called molars). Once they’re on, sealants work to keep cavity-causing bacteria and bits of food from settling into the nooks and crannies your child’s toothbrush can’t reach. This helps keep cavities from forming and tiny existing spots of decay from getting worse.
In fact, having sealants on your permanent molars reduces the risk of cavities by 80%. It’s best to get sealants as soon as your child’s permanent molars come through their gums (usually at age 6, then again at age 12).
Please keep in mind sealants aren’t a substitute for brushing and flossing, which should be done at least twice daily.