Start the school year right with our back to school dental checklist for Long Island kids. Ensure your child’s oral health is ready for success.As summer winds down and Long Island students prepare for a new academic year, it’s not just school supplies and clothes you should be thinking about—it’s also your child’s oral health. A complete back to school dental checklist ensures your child starts the year with a healthy, confident smile.
At Platinum Pediatric Dentistry, we help Long Island families prepare for the school year by offering comprehensive dental care in a friendly, kid-focused environment. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every essential step in your child’s dental checklist so they can focus on learning—not cavities or discomfort.
Why Dental Checkups Matter Before School Starts
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dental cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood in the U.S. Cavities can cause pain, infections, and missed school days.
A back to school dental checklist helps identify and treat issues early, ensuring that your child is healthy, pain-free, and focused during class.
The Ultimate Back to School Dental Checklist
✅ 1. Schedule a Routine Dental Exam
Start the year strong by booking your child’s dental exam. Pediatric dentists recommend visits every six months to monitor growth, identify issues, and provide preventive care.
At Platinum Pediatric Dentistry, we conduct thorough checkups that include:
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Tooth-by-tooth examination
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Bite assessment
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Gum health screening
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Fluoride treatment and X-rays (if needed)
✅ 2. Professional Cleaning
Even the best brushers can miss spots. A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar, helping to prevent gum disease and decay. This is a must-do before your child returns to school.
✅ 3. Update Your Child’s Dental Records
Some schools may require updated dental forms, especially for sports participation or enrollment. We can provide school-friendly documentation at your appointment.
✅ 4. Consider Dental Sealants
Sealants are thin coatings applied to molars to prevent cavities in hard-to-reach chewing surfaces. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), sealants reduce decay by 80% in the first two years.
If your child doesn’t already have sealants, this is the perfect time to ask.
✅ 5. Refill Fluoride Toothpaste & Mouthwash
Fluoride strengthens enamel and reduces the risk of decay. Be sure your child has fluoride toothpaste and, if age-appropriate, a fluoride mouthwash.
Check out our favorite ADA-approved products in our post on at-home oral hygiene.
✅ 6. Inspect for Worn-Out Toothbrushes
The CDC recommends changing toothbrushes every 3–4 months. Worn bristles don’t clean teeth well and can harbor bacteria.
Tip: Let your child pick a fun toothbrush featuring their favorite cartoon character to make brushing more exciting!
✅ 7. Review Brushing and Flossing Technique
Before school routines get hectic, take time to go over the basics:
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Brush twice daily for two minutes.
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Floss once daily.
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Use a timer or app to help young children stay on track.
✅ 8. Pack a Smile-Friendly Lunch
Avoid sticky snacks, sugary juices, or chewy candies. Instead, opt for:
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Cheese
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Fresh fruits (e.g., apples, strawberries)
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Vegetables
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Water
These not only support overall health but also help keep teeth clean throughout the day.
✅ 9. Protect Teeth During Sports
Does your child play soccer, football, or basketball? Ask about custom mouthguards. They protect teeth from fractures, chips, and concussions.
Read more about our pediatric sports dentistry services.
✅ 10. Discuss Orthodontic Needs
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. If your child has crooked teeth, bite issues, or spacing concerns, early intervention can simplify future treatment.
Learn more in our guide on When Should My Child See the Orthodontist?
Back to School Dental FAQ
Q: What dental steps should I take before my child returns to school?
A: Schedule a dental exam, get a cleaning, check toothbrushes, update school forms, and review oral hygiene routines.
A: Schedule a dental exam, get a cleaning, check toothbrushes, update school forms, and review oral hygiene routines.
Q: Are sealants part of a back to school dental checklist?
A: Yes. Sealants protect molars from decay and are recommended for school-aged children.
A: Yes. Sealants protect molars from decay and are recommended for school-aged children.
Q: What should my child avoid eating at school for better oral health?
A: Avoid sugary snacks, sticky candies, and soda. Choose fruits, cheese, and water.
A: Avoid sugary snacks, sticky candies, and soda. Choose fruits, cheese, and water.
Q: When should children first visit the orthodontist?
A: The first orthodontic evaluation should occur by age 7 to catch early bite or spacing issues.
A: The first orthodontic evaluation should occur by age 7 to catch early bite or spacing issues.
Bonus Tips for Busy Long Island Parents
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Create a morning routine that includes 2 minutes for brushing.
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Send floss picks in lunchboxes for older kids.
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Set reminders in your phone to schedule dental visits every six months.
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Reward healthy dental habits with sticker charts or screen time bonuses.
Why Choose Platinum Pediatric Dentistry?
Located in the heart of Long Island, Platinum Pediatric Dentistry offers:
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Board-certified pediatric dental care
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State-of-the-art technology
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Weekend availability
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Multilingual staff
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Gentle, fear-free experiences
We’re proud to be your Long Island dental home as your kids grow and thrive.
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Final Thought
Don’t let dental health take a back seat as your child returns to school. Use this back to school dental checklist to ensure a bright, cavity-free year. For personalized care and expert guidance, schedule an appointment with Platinum Pediatric Dentistry today.
Don’t let dental health take a back seat as your child returns to school. Use this back to school dental checklist to ensure a bright, cavity-free year. For personalized care and expert guidance, schedule an appointment with Platinum Pediatric Dentistry today.