It’s back-to-school time which comes with all the usual excitement and preparations. There are supplies to find, new clothes to purchase, and health matters to attend to. Don’t forget that it’s also important to set your child up for success with consistent dental hygiene habits! Recent studies have shown a correlation between a child’s oral health and their school performance. Keep reading to learn more about how, and what you can do to help get your child off to a strong start this year!
How Does Oral Health Impact My Child’s Happiness?
Clinical studies have demonstrated a connection between dental problems and children’s psychosocial well-being. Children who had problems with their teeth were more likely to report feeling worthless, inferior, and even depressed. While this was true for children of all ages in the study, it was most especially applicable to adolescents who were 15 years or older.
Because of this, it’s safe to say that the state of their pearly whites influences a child’s emotional stability. If they don’t feel comfortable or confident in themselves, they’re less likely to be outgoing, make friends, or engage in creative or social activities. After all, who wants to put themselves out there when they’re anxious about being judged for their teeth?
Does Oral Health Also Matter At School?
A child’s performance at school is closely linked with their emotional happiness, so it stands to reason that issues with their teeth carry over at school, too. Statistically, children with flawed teeth are more likely to have problems at school, miss school due to illness or appointments, and not do all their required work. This directly affects their grades which factor in homework assignments and class participation.
Meanwhile, children with healthy dental hygiene habits were much more likely to finish their schoolwork and be more socially engaged. That means that by improving your child’s oral health, you can directly influence their academic success and improve their grades!
Is It Too Late For My Child?
If your child already has cavities or frequently forgets to brush or floss their teeth, you might be worried that this has already impacted how well they’re doing at school. It may have, but there is time to turn things around! You can work with your children to ensure they’re engaging in healthy habits at home to boost their health as well as their confidence. This includes brushing and flossing at least twice a day for two minutes at a time. You can also limit their access to sugary and starchy foods that can attract unwanted bacteria or cause plaque buildup.
If you’re worried about the state of your child’s smile as you come into this new school year, it’s a good idea to check in with their dentist. You’ll have such peace of mind knowing you’re contributing to your child’s confidence by giving them the healthy smile they deserve!
About the Author
Whether your child requires basic dental care or needs more intense repair or reconstruction, Dr. Louis Olberding can help. He graduated with a BS in biology from the University of Nevada and then achieved his DDS at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. He has also studied at two of today’s most distinguished dental institutions; the Misch International Implant Institute and the Dawson Academy. If you are concerned about your child’s oral well-being, feel free to request an appointment on the website or call (402) 488-2325.