Although it may seem like summer just started, a new school year is just around the corner. If you are a parent, you are likely occupied with back-to-school sales, shopping for clothes, and making sure your child has a physical before school starts. Make sure you add a dental visit to the list, especially if your child needs a dental health certificate.
New York State law requires that dental health certificates be distributed to students going into Kindergarten as well as second, fourth, seventh, and tenth grades. Although students are not mandated to return them, they are valuable tools to ensure that the school and the parents are in good communication regarding the child’s dental health.
The New York State Dental Foundation (NYSDF) website offers valuable information about dental health certificates. “The purpose of the dental certificate is to determine whether a child is in ‘fit condition of dental health to permit his/her attendance at public schools’ by providing a clinical assessment. Fit condition is defined as the absence of painful conditions, obvious swelling related to clinical evidence of open cavities, or any other condition that interferes with the student’s ability to chew, speak or focus on school activities.”
A 2009 article in the New York State Dental Journal provided a valuable overview about dental health certificates. Dr. Milton L. Lawney, D.D.S., public advocacy coordinator for the NYSDF, explained the “dental examination is used to determine a child’s dental health condition.” He described it as a “visual caries assessment,” which does not necessarily have to be done in a dentist’s office. “It proves that the child is not in pain, that the child can concentrate in class, and it is an important measurement tool in assisting state agencies to make sure that all children have a dental home.”
Everyone at Moore Family Dental knows that your child’s dental health is very important to you. As you prepare for the beginning of a new school year, add a dental health certificate to your checklist. We are pleased to fulfill these dental health certificates for you. In addition to providing the school with valuable information about your child, it will give you peace of mind.
As a parent, you worry about your child and do your best to keep your child healthy. A dental health certificate is just one component; there are other things you can do on a daily basis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children eat “regular nutritious meals” and “avoid frequent between-meal snacking.” In addition, fluoride is important to protect teeth. Fluoride toothpaste is one option; the CDC recommends a “pea-sized amount on their toothbrush” for children under 7. Fluoridated drinking water is another option. The CDC also suggests talking with the dentist about dental sealants to guard against tooth decay.
A new school can be a new beginning in many ways. If your child’s dental habits are not as excellent as you’d like, help your child view the new school year as an opportunity to create new – and better – habits. Just as you work with your child on eating healthy foods, engaging in good study habits, and being a good student, you can work with your child to ensure proper brushing and regular dental visits. If you have any questions about obtaining a NYS dental health certificate, please contact us. Enjoy a wonderful school year!