Back-to-School Dental Checkups: How to Prepare and What to Expect

Back‑to‑school season is more than just school supplies and new shoes, it’s the perfect time to get your children in for a check-up before your family schedule gets completely out of hand. At Akron Smile, we make routine check‑ups practical, comfortable, and family-centered. Here’s how to take full advantage of your visit and set your child up for a successful year—in and out of the classroom.

1. Do a Quick Health Check Before the Visit

About a week before your appointment, get an update on your child’s oral health. Check for the following and let Dr. Walton know any potential concerns. This helps us tailor your child’s visit efficiently and compassionately.

• Any spots, pits, or pits in teeth
  
• Complaints of sensitivity or discomfort
  
• Bad breath or tender, red gums

2. Plan for a Comprehensive Exam & Cleaning

At Akron Smile, routine back‑to‑school visits typically include:

• A professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup
  
• Bitewing or panoramic X‑rays if needed, to catch early signs of decay
  
• A full oral exam—teeth, gums, tongue, bite alignment, jaw development

Early detection means simpler, more comfortable care and prevention of future problems.

3. Take Advantage of Education & Personalized Guidance

Our team loves empowering families with dental know-how. We cover:

• Proper brushing and flossing technique tailored for your child’s age
  
• Dietary advice: limiting sugary snacks and drinks to reduce decay risk
  
• Home care tips to minimize anxiety and build daily habits

Knowledge is a powerful tool in preventing cavities before the school year begins.

4. Schedule Follow-Up Treatments Early

Need sealants, fluoride treatments, orthodontics, or minor fillings?

Now is the time to schedule them—before school gets busy. Addressing needs early helps avoid missing school days, as dental pain can lead to lost learning time.

5. Make It Comfortable & Stress-Free

At Akron Smile, we understand that some children feel anxious. To keep visits positive:

• Most of our team have children—we get it. We love to go the extra mile to make your children feel welcomed and comfortable.
  
• We explain each step clearly, helping your child feel involved and safe
  
• We have kid-friendly amenities, from choosing their toothpaste flavor to fun distractions like headphones and their choice of entertainment. And a goodie bag on the way out of course.

Why It Matters: Health + Confidence + Focus

According to the American Dental Association, children lose more than 51 million school hours each year due to dental pain and related issues. By getting ahead of dental problems before the school year, you’re helping your child stay confident, comfortable, and able to thrive academically and socially.

Book Your Back‑to‑School Checkup 

It’s that time again, where did the summer go? Schedule a convenient time before your daily calendar gets completely out of hand. Schedule your visit through our simple online form or give our office a call or text at 330-434-3485.