As the school year approaches, families are busy checking off school supply lists, preparing schedules, and getting back into a routine. While it’s easy to focus on backpacks and lunchboxes, don’t forget one of the most important back-to-school essentials: your child’s oral health.

Healthy smiles help children feel confident, stay comfortable in the classroom, and avoid unnecessary missed school days. Here are a few simple ways to keep your family on track with preventative dental care this school year.  

Tip #1: Take Advantage of KOHA

Michigan created the Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment (KOHA) Program to help improve school readiness by promoting good oral health from an early stage. My Community Dental Centers partners with local health departments across Michigan to provide oral health assessments at schools and community events throughout the year.

Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children, and kids with poor dental health are three times more likely to miss school because of dental pain, cavities, and infections. Missing school can make it harder for children to learn, participate in class, and build a healthy dental routine.

The good news is that the KOHA assessment takes less than five minutes and is similar to the hearing and vision screenings children receive at school. The assessment is a quick, preventative dental care screening that can identify potential issues before they become bigger problems.

Check in with your local dentist office or keep an eye out for upcoming events in your community to take advantage of this opportunity to support your child’s health.  

Tip #2: Stick to a Healthy Dental Routine 

A busy school schedule shouldn’t get in the way of healthy habits. Establishing a consistent dental routine helps prevent cavities and keeps your child’s smile healthy all year long.

Make these habits part of your family’s daily routine to keep up with a healthy smile:

• Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily, keeping in mind that adults will have to do the actual flossing for toddlers and young children up until around age 10.
• Replace toothbrushes every three to four months or after getting over a cold.
• Limit taking sugary snacks and drinks to school.
• Visit the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings every six months.

These habits can help prevent dental problems before they start, allowing your child to focus on learning, making friends, and enjoying the school year.

Tip #3: Schedule Dental Appointments Early 

Scheduling appointments in advance makes it easier to find a time that fits your family’s busy calendar and stay on top of your dental routine.

A few easy ways to stay ahead include:

• Schedule your child’s next six-month checkup before leaving your current appointment.
• Set reminders on your phone or calendar.
• Have your insurance information ready when scheduling.
• Choose appointment times that work around school breaks or after-school activities whenever possible.

Planning ahead helps ensure your child receives regular preventative dental care without adding extra stress to your schedule. 

Getting back into the groove of things with the upcoming back-to-school year does not have to be overwhelming. By keeping up with daily oral hygiene, taking advantage of preventative dental care programs like KOHA, and staying on top of regular dental visits, you can help your child start the school year healthy and confident.

At My Community Dental Centers, we’re committed to providing compassionate, high-quality dental care for patients of all ages. Our team takes the time to understand your family’s dental needs and works with you to create healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Ready to schedule your child’s next dental appointment? Visit our locations page to find the closest MCDC location near you and start the school year off prepared.