Get Back to the Dentist and Keep Your Kids in School

Forget about new clothes and notebooks, did you know that one of the biggest concerns parents have at the start of a new school year is oral health? Your pediatric dentist in Long Island understands! It’s super important to keep your kids healthy from mouth to toes. Let’s explore why and how dental health can affect your child’s abilities at school.

The Math Lesson

In a 2016 survey of parents, they said that oral health is indeed another concern they have during the craziness that ensues when schools reopen for the new year. The survey showed that parents aren’t exactly wrong in how they worry about their kids and their teeth. Here are some of the results:

• American parents said 30 percent or about 8.6 million of their 6- to 12-year-olds had missed school because of an oral health issue (as opposed to simply having a regularly scheduled dental appointment.)
• 9,067,082: Roughly the number of full school days missed by children due to an oral health problem, as reported by parents.
• 4,029,814: The number of half-days parents says their 6- to 12-year-olds missed.
• Seventy-one percent of parents that cite their child’s oral health as a top concern they think about daily, right up there with school grades (61 percent), personal finances (62 percent), their child’s physical activity (55 percent), and whom their child is friends with (36 percent).

The Cavity Classroom Connection

When it comes to kids and their teeth, your Long Island pediatric dentist will tell you that cavities are probably the biggest issue. Tooth decay is one of the most chronic childhood diseases across the country. When left alone without regular checkups and care, cavities can lead to:

– Pain

– Infection

– Trouble eating

– Speaking problems

– Inability to play

– Stunted learning

For the most part, cavities are a preventable disease. Fluoride and dental sealants offer powerful protection for little teeth to ward off disease and decay. Remember to keep your kids healthy by bringing them to our Long Island pediatric dental office every six months for a checkup. We’ll do our best to help you avoid missing work and school. At-home care will also help keep your kiddo’s teeth free from disease. Remember to get them to brush twice daily for two minutes with a fluoridated toothpaste. (We know some days are easier than others!) Flossing will also help remove unwanted plaque that can lead to cavities and decay. Try to eat a healthy diet of fresh veggies and fruits, with limited amounts of sugary beverages and sweets.

If your little one is due for a visit with us, please call our pediatric dental office in Long Island. We’ve got a seat saved just for you. If you have any questions about their oral health or smile needs, please don’t hesitate to ask. We’re always happy to help you and your family!

About The Author

Dr. Glen Ehrenman

In April this year, Dr. Glen Ehrenman received a Lifetime Diplomate status and an award from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD), where he has been a diplomate since 1995. Since 2010, he has been a clinical assistant professor and mentor at the State University of New York Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine. He has memberships with dental organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, New York State Dental Association, and the Nassau County Dental Society. His commitment to excellence earned him the Top DDS of 2012 award from Long Island Pulse Magazine.

Read The Full Bio