Back-to-school prep is in full swing — backpacks, supply lists, new sneakers. But one item frequently gets left off the checklist: a dental visit. Summer is actually the ideal time to schedule your child’s appointment. Addressing any dental concerns before school starts means fewer disruptions, fewer missed school days, and a child who heads into the year with a healthy, confident smile. Here is what to put on your summer dental checklist.
Schedule a Cleaning and Exam
If it has been six months or more since your child’s last dental visit, now is the time to book one. Routine cleanings and exams catch small problems before they become big ones — and summer offers flexibility that the school year rarely does. No juggling pickups, after-school activities, or homework conflicts. Many pediatric dental offices fill up quickly in August, so calling sooner rather than later gives you the best chance of securing a convenient appointment time.
Ask About Dental Sealants
If your child has recently had permanent molars come in and has not yet had sealants applied, summer is an excellent time to ask. Dental sealants are a thin protective coating painted onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where cavities most commonly develop. The application is fast and completely painless, and research shows sealants can reduce the risk of cavities in back teeth by up to 80 percent. It is one of the simplest, most cost-effective preventive steps in pediatric dentistry.
Check In on Orthodontic Timing
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. If your child is approaching that age and has not yet been seen, summer allows time for any recommended treatment to begin before the school year gets into full swing. At Fort Dental, we offer orthodontic consultations alongside our general pediatric care, so your child can be evaluated without a separate visit to a different provider.
Get a Professional Hygiene Assessment
A checkup is not just about cleaning — it is also an opportunity for a professional assessment of your child’s brushing and flossing habits. The hygienist can spot areas where plaque is building up, demonstrate improved technique, and give age-appropriate guidance on flossing. Many children respond better to instruction from a dental professional than from a parent, so let the team help reinforce healthy habits for the year ahead.
Address Any Lingering Concerns
If your child has mentioned tooth pain, sensitivity, a tooth that will not come loose, or discomfort with braces or a retainer, summer is the time to address those issues. Dental problems that go unaddressed before school starts tend to become distractions during the school year. A quick visit now can catch small problems early and prevent the larger disruption of dealing with them when homework and activities are in full swing.
Do not wait until September — summer appointments fill up fast. Call Fort Dental Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics at (206) 242-4121 or book online at fortdental.net to get your child’s smile school-ready. Located in Tukwila, Washington.