Summer is drawing to a close, fall is right around the corner, and the next school year will start before you know it. Does your child have everything they need to succeed? Among the new lunchboxes, folders, and pens, make sure they have a healthy smile! Healthy teeth and gums are essential for your little one’s well-being, and studies indicate that good oral health can help with performance in school. Read on as your Collinsville children’s dentist explains how your child’s dental health can influence their academic success.
Do The Math: Bad Teeth = Bad Grades
At first, it may seem unlikely that your child’s teeth and gums are related to how well they do in school. Nonetheless, upon further inspection, the connection becomes obvious! If your child’s teeth and gums aren’t healthy, they’re more likely to encounter challenges like:
- Lack of focus: A nagging toothache or recurring tooth sensitivity could easily distract your child from class, making it harder for them to pay attention during lectures and while doing homework.
- Missed school: Poor oral health dramatically increases a child’s risk of a dental emergency. These alarming and scary situations will often require a same-day emergency appointment and a follow-up visit, which may interfere with their school hours.
- Shyness in class: If your little one’s smile doesn’t look or feel it’s best, it’s only natural for them to feel a bit self-conscious. They may not feel comfortable raising their hand in class, participating in group activities, or making new friends.
Hit the Books: Here’s What the Research Shows
Recently, experts have set about collecting data on school children and their dental health to get a better understanding of this connection. Numerous studies across the nation and worldwide have been conducted, and the findings show that “…dental problems were significantly associated with reduction in school performance and psychosocial well-being.” In fact, researchers estimate that 51 million school hours or more are lost every year because of dental problems.
Back to School: Tips for Better Oral Health
Fortunately, there are many ways you as a parent can help your child succeed in dental health and at school! Here are a few easy tips to keep in mind as the next semester approaches:
- Ensure your child is brushing for a full two minutes twice a day
- Check that your child is flossing properly and daily
- See to it that your little one is getting a dental checkup and cleaning every six months
- Pack healthy, low-sugar snacks and lunches
- Teach them why good oral health is important
A healthy smile every day could help keep the bad grades away! Set your child up for academic success this year by safeguarding their oral health.
About the Practice
At Collinsville Dental Associates, our talented team has years of experience helping smiles of all ages stay happy and healthy for a lifetime. We encourage patients to bring their children in for their first checkup by their first birthday so we can help get them on the path to optimal oral health. We offer a variety of services specialized for kids and love to teach them how to best look after their pearly whites. To learn more, we can be contacted online or at (276) 647-1494.