Back-to-School Dental Checklist for Kids and Teens in Arcadia

As summer winds down and families start preparing for a new school year, it’s the perfect time to check in on your child’s dental health. Backpacks, supplies, and new shoes may be on your to-do list — but don’t forget your child’s back-to-school dental checkup!

At Arcadia Medi-Dental Group, we’re proud to be your trusted family dentist in Arcadia, CA, serving young patients from Arcadia, Monrovia, Temple City, and the wider San Gabriel Valley. This comprehensive back-to-school dental checklist will help ensure your kids and teens walk into the classroom with a healthy, confident smile — and the tools to keep it that way all year long.

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1. Schedule a Back-to-School Dental Checkup

One of the best ways to set your child up for success is by scheduling a dental exam and cleaning before school starts. This gives us a chance to:

• Catch any early signs of cavities or tooth problems

• Check for orthodontic concerns like crowding or misalignment

• Apply sealants or fluoride to protect their teeth

• Help them feel confident with a clean, healthy smile

Early morning and afternoon appointments tend to fill up fast in August—so don’t wait to book your child’s visit!

2. Reinforce a Daily Brushing & Flossing Routine

With school schedules getting busy, it’s easy for oral hygiene habits to slide. Help your kids stay on track by:

• Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Flossing once a day, especially for teens with braces or tight contacts

• Using a fun timer, music, or app to make brushing more enjoyable

Pro Tip: For younger children, do a quick check after they brush to make sure no spots were missed!

3. Pack Smart Snacks and Drinks

What your child eats during school can directly impact their dental health. Instead of sugary snacks and sodas, try packing:

• Fresh fruits like apples, strawberries, or grapes

• Cheese sticks or yogurt (low in sugar)

• Whole grain crackers or nuts (if school-safe)

• Water instead of juice or sports drinks

Water helps wash away food particles and keeps the mouth hydrated throughout the day—plus, it's the best drink for preventing cavities.

4. Consider a Mouthguard for Sports

If your child or teen plays sports—especially football, basketball, soccer, or hockey—a custom-fit mouthguard is a must-have.

Mouthguards protect teeth from chips, breaks, or even loss during impact. At Arcadia Medi-Dental Group, we can create a comfortable, custom-fit mouthguard right here in our office.

5. Watch for Signs of Dental Issues

Even if your child isn’t complaining, keep an eye out for common red flags such as:

• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods

• Difficulty chewing or jaw pain

• Bad breath that doesn’t go away

• Swollen gums or bleeding during brushing

These could be signs of cavities, gum issues, or the need for orthodontic evaluation.

6. Talk to Us About Orthodontics or Braces

Middle school and high school are often the ideal time to start orthodontic treatment. If your child is:

• Losing baby teeth early or late

• Showing crowding, gaps, or bite issues

• Struggling with speech or chewing

…it might be time for an orthodontic consultation. We offer evaluations and referrals for braces and aligners tailored to your teen’s needs.

7. Make Dental Health Part of the School Routine

Help kids connect the importance of oral care to their overall health and confidence. Some fun ways to encourage healthy habits:

• Let them pick their toothbrush or toothpaste

• Use a sticker chart to track brushing

• Celebrate “cavity-free” checkups with small rewards

A little motivation can go a long way, especially for younger kids.

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We're Here to Support Healthy Smiles All Year Long

At Arcadia Medi-Dental Group, we love working with families to build healthy habits and smiles that last a lifetime. As a trusted family dentist in Arcadia, CA, we’re proud to help kids and teens feel confident and cavity-free when they head back to school.

Whether it’s their first visit or a routine cleaning, we make dental care gentle, fun, and educational for kids of all ages.

📍 Arcadia Medi-Dental Group | Arcadia, CA

📞 (626) 515-8090

🦷 Family Dentistry | Kids & Teens | Preventive Care