Back to School Smiles: Why Dental Health Matters for Student Success
As August rolls around, families are preparing for the hustle and bustle of back-to-school season. New backpacks, sharpened pencils, and updated class schedules take center stage—but there’s one essential part of school prep that’s often overlooked: a healthy smile.
Dental health plays a far bigger role in academic success than many parents realize. In fact, several studies have revealed a direct link between poor oral health and poor academic performance. As students head back into the classroom, now is the perfect time to make sure their teeth—and their grades—are in great shape.
The Link Between Oral Health and School Performance
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that children with poor oral health were nearly three times more likely to miss school due to dental pain than those with good oral health. And missing school is just the beginning. The same research also showed that students with dental issues were four times more likely to have lower grade point averages.
Another study by the National Maternal and Child Oral Health Resource Center revealed that 17% of children aged 6–11 reported experiencing a toothache in the past six months—painful enough to affect sleep, concentration, and school performance. When a child is distracted by discomfort or pain, it’s harder to focus on class, complete homework, or perform well on tests.
In short, a healthy smile is more than just cosmetic—it’s foundational to a student’s confidence, attendance, and ability to learn.
Dental Visits: The Smartest Back-to-School Tradition
Before classes resume, a back-to-school dental checkup should be on every parent’s checklist. Routine dental cleanings can help identify small problems before they become painful emergencies. And let’s not forget the impact of a clean, healthy smile on a child’s self-esteem—especially in those middle and high school years when confidence matters so much.
Dentists can also apply sealants, recommend age-appropriate toothpaste, and provide helpful guidance on diet and hygiene habits that support strong teeth all year long.
Fun Dental Facts for Kids (and Parents!)
Want to get your kids more excited about their oral health? Share these fun facts with them:
- Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body—even stronger than bone!
- The average person spends 38.5 days brushing their teeth over a lifetime. That’s a lot of brushing!
- Chewing sugar-free gum can help clean your teeth. It stimulates saliva, which neutralizes acids and helps wash away food particles.
- Sharks lose thousands of teeth in their lifetime—some species grow a new tooth every week!
- The Tooth Fairy is generous! According to a recent poll, the average payout per lost tooth is $6.23.
Healthy Habits to Start the School Year Right
Here are a few simple ways parents can support their child’s dental health and set them up for a successful school year:
- Brush and floss daily. Make it part of the morning and bedtime routine.
- Pack tooth-friendly lunches. Include fruits, veggies, cheese, and water—and avoid sticky candies or sugary drinks.
- Schedule regular checkups. Dentists recommend two visits per year for preventive care.
- Talk positively about the dentist. Help kids feel comfortable and confident during visits.
A Smile That Shines in the Classroom
Every parent wants their child to do well in school. Ensuring they’re pain-free, confident, and focused is a crucial part of that. Dental health might not be the first thing we think about during school prep, but it’s one of the most impactful.
As you check off items on your back-to-school list this August, don’t forget to book that dental appointment. A healthy smile might just be the secret to a successful school year! Bergenfield 201-453-4867 or Tappan 845-367-7782
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Dr. Mariliza LaCap and Dr. Tong are local experts in dental care. Their mission is to have a community of healthy, beautiful smiles through proper dental care and education. Office hours are 9am-8pm on the weekdays and Saturdays 8am-2pm to accommodate busy schedules. Dr. LaCap and her husband are both graduates of Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery; they both graduated at the top of their class. They are owners of Washington Dental Associates, Smile More Dentistry and Smile More Kidz.