What should be on a back-to-school dental checklist?
Before the new school year starts, most families schedule a physical and stock up on supplies — but a dental checkup is just as important and often overlooked. A quick visit can catch small issues like cavities or early alignment concerns before they turn into missed school days later in the year. Here’s what Dr. Susana Moncada recommends checking off before the first bell rings.
1. Schedule a Routine Cleaning and Exam
Summer schedules can push dental visits to the back burner. A cleaning and exam before school starts gives Dr. Moncada a chance to catch cavities while they’re small, check for early signs of alignment issues, and make sure your child starts the year cavity-free.
2. Ask About Sealants and Fluoride
For school-age children, especially those prone to cavities, preventive treatments make a real difference:
- Fluoride treatments strengthen enamel and help prevent decay in the grooves of back teeth
- Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of molars, where most childhood cavities form
- Both are quick, painless additions to a regular checkup
3. Check on Orthodontic Timing
Late summer is a natural checkpoint for evaluating whether your child may benefit from early orthodontic guidance. Dr. Moncada monitors spacing, bite development, and alignment during pediatric visits, and can flag early on whether Invisalign or traditional braces might be worth discussing as your child gets older — without rushing into treatment before it’s needed.
4. Talk About Mouthguards for Fall Sports
If your child is heading into fall sports — football, soccer, or any contact activity — a properly fitted mouthguard matters more than people think. Over-the-counter options offer some protection, but a custom mouthguard fits more securely and is far more comfortable for kids who already don’t love wearing one.
5. Refresh the Morning and Night Routine
New school schedules often disrupt established habits. A few reminders worth revisiting as routines shift:
- Brushing for two full minutes, morning and night
- Flossing once daily, even with a packed schedule
- Limiting sugary snacks and drinks during after-school activities
- Keeping a water bottle handy instead of juice or soda between classes
6. Know What a Dental Emergency Looks Like
Active kids and busy hallways sometimes mean bumped teeth or unexpected accidents. Knowing the basics — what to do for a knocked-out tooth, when a chipped tooth needs same-day attention — means less panic if something happens during the school year. Our emergency dental care line is there if you need it.
Get Your Family Ready for the School Year
A short visit now can mean fewer dental surprises once the school year is in full swing. Dr. Susana Moncada and her team welcome families throughout Windermere, MetroWest, Gotha, Ocoee, and Dr. Phillips, with bilingual care (English/Spanish) for the whole family.
Contact us online or call (407) 294-1132 to schedule your child’s back-to-school visit at our Piazza Grande Ave office in Orlando.
Have a Question You’d Like Answered?
If there’s a topic you’d like us to cover, or if you have questions about your oral health, our team is here to help.
