Our West Allis Dentist Provides Tips for a Healthy and Happy Smile Just in Time for the School Year
As summer fades and the new school year approaches, parents are busy preparing their children with everything they need for success—backpacks, notebooks, and, of course, a healthy smile. At our West Allis dentist office, we know that a back-to-school dental checkup is just as essential as any other item on your child’s school checklist. Ensuring your child’s oral health now can set the tone for a positive and successful school year.
Why a Back-to-School Dental Checkup Matters
Regular dental visits are crucial year-round, but a back-to-school checkup can be particularly beneficial. Cavities are the most common chronic disease in children, and untreated dental issues can lead to pain, trouble eating, difficulty speaking, and even missed school days. In fact, dental problems cause children to miss more than 51 million school hours each year. A back-to-school checkup at our West Allis dentist office can help prevent these issues, ensuring that your child starts the school year with a healthy and confident smile. We focus on prevention and early detection, making it easier to address potential problems before they become serious.
Tips for a Smooth Dental Visit
We understand that visiting the dentist isn't always a child's favorite activity. However, with a little preparation and a positive attitude, the experience can be enjoyable for both your child and you. Here are some tips to ensure a successful back-to-school dental checkup:
1. Plan in Advance
Summer activities can make it easy to forget about scheduling dental appointments until the last minute. To avoid the back-to-school rush, try to book your child’s checkup early in the summer. This way, you can secure a convenient time that works for your family's schedule and avoid the stress of last-minute appointments.
2. Choose the Right Time of Day
Scheduling your child’s dental appointment at the right time of day can make a big difference. If your child still takes naps, avoid booking during naptime to prevent crankiness. For older children, avoid scheduling right after a long day at school or camp when they may be tired. A well-rested child is more likely to have a positive experience.
3. Prepare Your Child
Talk to your child about what to expect during their dental visit. Explain that the dentist is there to help keep their teeth healthy and strong. Reading books or watching videos about dental visits can also help familiarize them with the process. Encourage them to ask questions and express any concerns they may have.
4. Practice Good Oral Hygiene at Home
The best way to ensure a successful dental checkup is to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home. Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes and floss daily. For younger children, help them brush until they have the motor skills to do it effectively on their own.
5. Stay Positive
Children often pick up on their parents' emotions, so it's important to stay positive about the dental visit. If you feel anxious about the dentist, try to keep those feelings in check so your child doesn’t pick up on them. Instead, focus on the positives—like how great their smile will look after the checkup!
Making the Experience Enjoyable
At our West Allis dentist office, we strive to make every visit a positive experience. If you have multiple children, consider letting the child with the most positive attitude go first. This can set a good example for siblings who might be a bit nervous. Also, be sure to feed your child a light meal before the appointment. A hungry child is often a cranky child, and eating something light will help them feel comfortable without having a full stomach.
If your child becomes upset during the visit, it’s important to remain calm and allow the dentist to guide the process. Sometimes, children may act out simply because they feel overwhelmed or anxious. Working as a team with the dentist can help turn the experience around and build a positive relationship between your child and their dental care provider.
After the Appointment
Once the checkup is complete, don’t forget to grab a few extra business cards on your way out. It’s a good idea to have your dentist’s contact information readily available in case of emergencies, whether your child is playing sports or just being active.
A back-to-school dental checkup at our West Allis dentist office is a great way to ensure your child starts the school year with a healthy smile. With a little preparation and the right attitude, you can make the experience enjoyable and beneficial for everyone involved.
We look forward to seeing you and your child soon—schedule your back-to-school checkup today by calling (414) 914-7000 and give your child the gift of a healthy, happy smile!
