How brushing your teeth will get you an “A” at school

Oral health significantly influences various aspects of a child’s life, from physical growth to academic performance. Maintaining good oral health goes beyond preventing cavities and can positively influence various aspects of a child’s life.

Poor oral health can make chewing difficult, causing children to avoid certain foods and resulting in nutritional deficiencies. Recent studies have used objective measures, such as blood tests, to identify deficiencies in key nutrients like vitamin D, B12, and iron in children with poor oral health. These nutrients are critical for growth and immune function, making the connection between oral health and overall physical development clear. In addition to blood markers, researchers also look at growth parameters such as height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) to assess the overall nutritional status of children. A Nature 2008 study showed children with severe dental caries had lower weight and improved growth after treatment. These objective measures provide a comprehensive view of how poor oral health can lead to nutritional deficits, which in turn affect growth, immune function, and overall health.

Dental pain and untreated oral health issues are also linked to sleep disturbances, which in turn affect children’s mood, behavior, and cognitive function. A study from the journal Sleep Health published in 2020 used clinical examinations to assess dental health and parent-reported questionnaires to measure sleep disturbances, establishing a link between dental pain and sleep issues. Another study, published in the Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry in 2018, used a combination of clinical assessments and sleep quality surveys to correlate dental pain with sleep disturbances. Both studies demonstrated the impact of oral health on sleep.

Furthermore, data from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry show that children with poor oral health miss an average of 2.2 school days per year. Missing school definitely impacts academic performance and concentration, as confirmed by studies correlating untreated dental pain with difficulties in focusing and learning.

By ensuring good oral health practices and regular dental visits, we can support children’s overall health, helping them thrive physically, academically, and socially.