August is in sight, which means retailers and parents alike are getting ready for the fall semester. You want to set your child up for success, and in a frenzy of preparation fever, maybe you’re wondering if dental health affects school performance. As it turns out, recent studies have found that the answer to that question is “yes”. It’s a good idea to take your child in for a dental checkup before classes start and schedules get hectic.
But you’ll also want to be informed about how these dots are connected. Keep reading so you know how best to brace for the academic season.
Dental Discomforts Are Dental Distractions
Have you ever tried to power through a workday when you’re experiencing sharp pains or pervasive aches? It’s hard! If you did manage to finish your shift, you might not have been satisfied with the quality of your work. Now imagine you’re a small child who doesn’t know to ask for pain relievers. Toothaches and other dental discomforts can distract your child from learning and impact their schoolwork. Not to mention they’re just plain painful!
Cavities Lead to Absences
Another way dental drama can hinder your child’s education is through absences. Treatment and recovery times are no joke. Curing something like a cavity can be an all-day event, and your child’s mouth might be sore for another day or so. They can’t perform at their best when they’re in pain, and they’ll definitely have a tough time acing tests if they’re missing class due to dental emergencies!
Poor Oral Hygiene Leads to Cavities
How do cavities form in the first place, though? It’s a good question. If you can prevent cavities, gum disease, and other common dental problems from occurring, you can avoid less-than-ideal grade point averages.
Harmful bacteria collect on teeth throughout the day and during meals. When routine brushing and flossing is neglected, this bacteria festers, eventually resulting in tooth decay. Sugar accelerates bacterial growth, so those with a sweet tooth might have an especially tough time! This is why dentists recommend visiting for biannual cleanings, brushing twice per day, flossing once per day, and limiting sugar intake.
Affording Dental Care
Following these recommendations will go a long way towards securing your child’s oral health and grades, but not everyone has the same access to dental care. Fortunately, dentists recognize this. If a tight budget is preventing you from booking an appointment, ask your dentist about dental insurance and financing options like CareCredit. Many patients appreciate these programs for helping to make treatment more affordable.
When dental dilemmas are the issue, your dentist is the best person to go to! With some help from preventative care and professional dental tips, you can empower your child to focus on their schoolwork and perform at their academic best.
About the Practice
Dr. Gilberto Lopez is passionate about helping patients of all ages achieve optimal oral health. As someone who’s always been fascinated with biology and wellness, he knows that dental discomfort can affect more than just teeth – grades are one example of this! With this wholistic perspective, you can trust that Dr. Lopez will provide the best care possible for your child. To contact his office, call 479-434-4277.