Impact of Poor Oral Health on School Performance

Do you know what the most common early childhood disease is? According to National Institutes of Health, dental caries are reported as the most common reason school-aged children are sick. In fact, children are 5 times more likely to develop tooth decay than asthma! I am sure you are wondering the impact of poor oral health on school performance.

Children with poorer oral health are more likely to experience oral pain, miss school, and perform poorly in class compared to their peers with better oral health. Dental pain can cause children to be irritable, withdrawn, and unable to concentrate. This can affect test performance and school attendance. If oral health conditions are left untreated, the pain and infection can lead to problems with eating, speaking, and learning.

Children who have dental issues resolved have improvement in their ability to learn and school attendance. Regular dental exams and cleaning along with good daily habits help keep children on track for success!

Call us today at Anchorage Pediatric Dentistry at (907)562-1003 and make an appointment with one of our Board Certified Pediatric Dentists! We look forward to meeting you!