As a parent, you want the best for your children, including doing their best in school. You can support them by taking an interest in their activities, being enthusiastic about attendance, and helping them with homework. There may also be another way to help your children succeed at school. Surprisingly, research suggests that children with better oral health will likely do better in school.
What the Research Says
One study in North Carolina examined risk factors for poor school performance among school-aged children. As expected, the study found that poor school performance is linked to low socioeconomic status, low levels of parental education, and poor overall health. However, it also found a strong link between poor oral health and poor school performance, with children classified as having poor oral health being 40 percent more likely to struggle in school.
These findings are generalizable to the rest of the country. For example, attendance is an important factor in academic achievement, but dental conditions cause 51 million school hours to be lost among schoolchildren each year. Dental pain and infection are linked to poorer performance.
School-Based Programs to Promote Oral Health
Some schools promote better oral care and health in light of the apparent benefits of good oral health for school performance. In Maine, for instance, schools in need can apply for grants through the School Oral Health Program (SOHP). The SOHP consists of four components:
- Oral health education for all children to support healthy behaviors
- A weekly fluoride mouth rinse to strengthen teeth
- Dental screenings to identify children who may need dental care
- Dental sealants, or plastic coatings, are placed on back teeth to guard against decay
The State of Maine also supports an “Annual Sugar Out Day” to raise awareness of sugar’s effects on dental health and help students choose low-sugar alternatives.
Oral Health Habits to Adopt
By encouraging good oral hygiene, you can help your child improve oral health and do better in school. This includes brushing at least twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste and reminding your child to drink water after eating. Also, regular visits to our Port Washington, NY, dental office can help prevent serious tooth problems.
