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Back to School Report: 31% of U.S. Kids Missed School Due to Dental Problems

August 4, 2015 By Kim Elmore

This past school year was a painful one for many U.S. students, according to a new Delta Dental survey. The survey finds that more than 30 percent of parents said their children between the ages of six and 12 had to miss school due to an oral health problem.

School Absence Breakdown

How much school was missed?

° 18% of parents reported their children missed at least a half a day of school

° 4% said their children missed one day

° 4% reported children missing 2 days

° 6% said their children had to miss 3 or more days

Top Absences by Region

1. Northeast (36%)

2. South (33%)

3. Midwest and West (28%)

Top Absences by Parent(s) Age:

1. Parents aged 35-44 (35%)

2. Parents 18-34 (34%)

3. Parents 45 and older (19%)

The Good News

Some attention to the issue over the summer can help avoid oral health problems. Try these 6 tips:

1. Brush all surfaces of the teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

2. Brush gently for about two minutes and pay special attention to the gum line.

3. Floss at least once a day.

4. Limit not only sugary snacks but also high-starch or refined carbohydrate foods. These include foods like chips, pretzels, cookies, breads, and dried fruits, including raisins. The bacteria that cause tooth decay thrive on simple sugars, especially those in sticky foods and treats.

5. Limit fruit juice or other sweet/sugary drinks to mealtimes. Between meals and especially at bedtime, give your child water, it helps keep him/her hydrated.

6. And,  go to the dentist before school starts to learn about current or looming issues that could pose a problem.

Check out our parenting blogs for more dental health tips.

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