Can you believe that it’s back to school season already? The summer flew by, and now you’re working hard to make sure that your child has all of the clothes and supplies they need in order to be ready to return to the classroom with confidence. But is there something you’ve accidentally left off of your back to school checklist? Let’s talk about why you shouldn’t let this time of year slip by without scheduling a visit to your children’s dentist in Harrisonburg.
The Importance of Preventive Care for Children
The American Dental Association recommends that children visit their dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and exam. These routine appointments serve several vital functions:
- The dentist in Harrisonburg can check for problems with the development of your child’s teeth.
- It may be possible to catch oral health problems, such as tooth decay or gum disease, while they are in their early stages and still relatively easy to fix.
- The dentist and hygienist can coach your child on how and why they should brush and floss.
- A thorough dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar from your child’s teeth that they might have missed during their regular oral hygiene routine.
- Regular dental exams help your child to establish a trusting relationship with their dentist and adopt a positive view of oral healthcare.
Why Back to School Is the Perfect Time for a Dental Checkup
This time of the year might be a bit busy for you, so you may hesitate to add yet another thing to your to-do list — but now is the ideal time to bring your child to the dentist. If you delay their checkup until after the school year begins, you may have to take them out of class for a couple of hours so they can get their teeth cleaned and examined. You have your own schedule to think about as well; it may be inconvenient for you to take time to pick your child up from school, take them to the dentist, and then return them to school.
Plus, it’s good to keep in mind that most dental insurance works on a calendar-year basis. If you discover now that your child needs fillings or other restorative treatments, you’ll have plenty of time to get them taken care of before your benefits expire at the end of December.
August is all about getting your kids ready to hit the books, but that doesn’t mean you should let their oral health fall by the wayside. Schedule their next dental exam and cleaning before the busyness of the school year sets in — you’ll be glad you did!
About the Author
Dr. Monisha Khanna, one of three dentists in our practice, competed her General Practice Residency at Carilion Clinic Dental Care. There, she gained experience in working with a variety of types of patients, including children. She always strives to provide care with a gentle touch and positive attitude. If it is time for your child’s next checkup, contact our office at 540-432-6616 to schedule their appointment.