Don’t Forget the Dentist in Your Back-to-School Prep

We believe that a healthy smile is more important than a sharpened pencil or new PE kit. Plus good dental health is a lifelong habit – not just for term time. So here’s our reminder to busy parents to add your children’s oral health to your other back to school prep.

Why dental check-ups matter before term starts

Your child’s teeth work hard every day – chewing, speaking, growing and (hopefully!) smiling. A dental check-up before term starts is a great way to:

• Catch problems early, like cavities or decay, overcrowding or gum issues
• Track oral development, especially for children approaching the age of needing braces
• Prevent future discomfort – nobody wants toothache halfway through a school day
• Get into good habits – a check-up can reinforce the importance of brushing, flossing and healthy snacking.

And perhaps most helpfully of all, it gives you one less thing to worry about once September arrives!

Your back to school checklist for a healthy mouth

While you’re working through the usual to-do list, consider adding these for a tooth-friendly start to the term:

Book a check-up

Aim for a dental appointment in July or August so your child starts the new term with a healthy, happy smile. You’re likely to have more flexibility than trying to squeeze an appointment in during term time, like everyone else.

Refresh dental supplies

Just like new pens and notebooks, this is a good time to replace toothbrushes (or electric heads), stock up on fluoride toothpaste, and make sure floss or interdental brushes are in the cupboard.

Plan lunchboxes and snacks

Swap out sticky sweets and sugary drinks for tooth-friendly snacks like cheese cubes, fruit, veg sticks or sugar-free yoghurts. Water is always the best drink choice.

Get back into routine

The return to school also means returning to good brushing habits – twice a day for two minutes. If brushing slipped a bit over the holidays, now’s the time to get back on track.

Ask about orthodontics

If your child is in their tweens or early teens, a check-up is a good opportunity to assess if they may need braces or aligners in the future. This will really help you to plan ahead and get them used to the idea.

What to expect at your child’s appointment

Children’s check-ups are usually quick and stress-free. We work hard to make sure children are relaxed and comfortable coming to see us, and always want to put their – and your – mind at ease if any dental treatment is needed. In a typical appointment, we’ll:

• Examine teeth and gums
• Check for signs of decay or early crowding
• Offer gentle advice on brushing techniques

If anything needs addressing – such as a filling or hygiene appointment – we’ll talk you through options and next steps. Many issues caught early are quick and easy to treat.

Why choose Holland Park Dental Centre?

We know that for some children (and parents), a trip to the dentist can feel daunting. We take the time to be warm, friendly and reassuring, no matter your child’s age or dental history. Whether your child is a nervous first-timer or seasoned regular, we’ll make sure they feel at ease.

And if you’ve not seen us for a while, don’t worry – we don’t judge. We’re here to help get your child’s oral health back on track in a supportive, no-pressure way.

Ready to Book?

Appointments in July and August tend to book up quickly, so we recommend getting in touch as soon as you can to secure a convenient time.

A back-to-school dental check is a small step that can make a big difference. Let’s help your child start the school year smiling with confidence, comfort and great oral health.

Call us today or book online to schedule your child’s check-up before term starts.