School is just around the corner, and it’s time to celebrate the end of summer. A few last pool parties, a cookout or two, and fall semester will be upon us. As you’re getting ready to go back to school, put a dental appointment with Dr. Jim Erpenbach on your checklist.
Along with new friends and craft projects, your child might bring…
School is just around the corner, and it’s time to celebrate the end of summer. A few last pool parties, a cookout or two, and fall semester will be upon us. As you’re getting ready to go back to school, put a dental appointment with Dr. Jim Erpenbach on your checklist.
Along with new friends and craft projects, your child might bring another souvenir home from summer camp – a damaged tooth. Adventures and accidents can leave teeth chipped, cracked, or broken. Damaged teeth can be repaired with bonding, crowns, or fillings. If your child loses a permanent tooth, a bridge can close the gap. Some procedures may require multiple visits, so it’s best to begin the process as soon as possible.
Braces and orthodontia may come with an adjustment period. If kids are used to their new dental work before school starts, lunchtime holds no horrors. Discuss proper care of appliances with children, so they’ll know what to do if “uh-ohs†occur away from home. Removable devices, like retainers, commonly get lost or thrown in the cafeteria garbage can. Help your children retain their retainer with a song, a special bracelet, a safety pin in their shirt – whatever works best.
School means sports, and sports mean it’s time for a mouthguard. Usually worn only for contact sports, mouthguards are actually recommended for all recreational activities. “Boil-and-bite†Mouthguards from a pharmacy or sporting goods store are easily fitted at home; however, if your child has braces or any dental work that alters the surfaces of their teeth, they’ll need a custom mouthguard from our office.
Scheduling an appointment with Dr. Erpenbach now avoids taking your child out of school, though they might prefer a sanctioned excuse to skip. Call our Knoxville dentist office today at 865-584-8630 to schedule an appointment for your child.
