5 Questions to Ask at Your Child’s Back-to-School Dental Appointment

For most students, the beginning of this school year is vastly different from years past. Classes are partially or even entirely virtual. Those attending in-person classes will have to adhere to strict social distancing and mask wearing guidelines. However, one aspect of the back-to-school routine should never change, and that’s taking your child to see their family dentist. Since excellent oral health is linked to better general health, why not use the start of the school year to make sure your little one’s mouth is as healthy and clean as can be? Here are a few questions to ask your child’s dentist at their next checkup.

1. How Is My Child’s Overall Dental Health?

During the dental exam, the dentist will be looking at every part of your child’s mouth to get a picture of their overall oral health. They check to make sure everything looks the way it should and keep an eye out for potential problems, like orthodontic issues that may need treatment in the future.

2. Will My Child Have a Cleaning Today?

Even if your son or daughter brushes every single day, they’re inevitably going to miss a few spots. Plaque could accumulate in those areas and cause cavities. That’s why it’s important for your child to have a teeth cleaning at least twice a year. Not only do regular cleanings rid their mouth of plaque, but it might also remove stains from the surface of their teeth, making their smile shine brightly.

3. Does My Child Need an X-Ray?

Your little one probably won’t require an x-ray at every visit, but they can be important. They allow the dentist to see how your child’s teeth are growing in, as well as spot signs of decay between the teeth early on.

4. Can You Check My Child’s Mouthguard?

If your child is an athlete, bring their mouthguard with you to their checkup. Have the dentist evaluate it to make sure it still fits well and provides enough protection. In most cases, a mouthguard should be replaced after every sports season.

5. Should My Child Get Dental Sealants?

While they’re no substitute for daily brushing and flossing, dental sealants can reduce your child’s risk of developing cavities by about 80 percent. Sealants are a thin, plastic-like coating that the dentist paints onto your child’s molars, the teeth toward the back of the mouth that are most susceptible to decay. Once applied, sealants prevent bacteria and food particles from getting trapped in those teeth’s nooks and crannies that are harder for your child’s toothbrush to reach.

Even though this year’s back-to-school season is unprecedented, there’s no reason to skip out on your child’s routine dental checkup and cleaning. By asking your family dentist these questions, you can ensure your little one’s smile stays as healthy as possible!

About the Author

Dr. Mark Stapleton is a family dentist in Chaska, MN who earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Since then he has become a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, thanks to his dedication to continuing education courses and clinical excellence. He is more than happy to treat young smiles and offers services such as dental sealants and mouthguards to keep your child smiling brightly. To learn more about these services, visit Dr. Stapleton’s website or call 952-448-2868.