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Ask Your Edinburg Dentist: Dental Emergencies – What You Need to Know About This Leading Cause of Missed School Days for Children

July 5, 2017

Emergency Dental Care

Did you know toothaches that result in serious dental emergencies are the leading cause of missed school days for kids? In fact, 1 in 7 children aged 6 to 12 suffered from toothache pain within the last 6 months. Some of those toothaches resulted in diagnosing a significant issue that required immediate treatment at an emergency room or emergency dentist.

Even if the pain doesn’t signal an emergency, it can cause other issues as well. Here’s what you need to know.

The Ramifications of Dental Pain

Children miss over 51 million hours of school time every year because of dental issues and similar conditions. The pain associated with such problems is distracting for students, causing their schoolwork to suffer, and can lead to absences. One study states that children on average experience 17.7 days of pain before they are seen by an emergency dentist or taken to the ER.

Students with healthy teeth typically have better attendance rates and are more likely to pay attention in class, especially when compared to those struggling with a toothache. They may even be more inclined to participate in other school-related activities, helping them have a fuller experience during their childhood and adolescence.

What You Can Do to Help

To help you start the school year off right, review proper oral hygiene techniques with your children. Go over brushing and flossing, and make sure they stick to an ideal schedule, flossing once a day and brushing twice a day. Also, be aware of sugary or starchy foods, especially as snacks, as these can increase the risk of painful cavities.

Why Seeing Your Edinburg Dentist Can Help Prevent Dental Emergencies

Children aren’t always the best at articulating their needs or the nature of the pain they are feeling. The best way to ensure your child doesn’t suffer from a toothache and any serious dental issues that may be the cause is to maintain their dental health. Having a regular dental exam at least every 6 months and regular x-rays reviewed by a dentist is imperative. Scheduling a dental appointment as part of your back-to-school list is a great way to make sure your child stays on-track.

Palm Valley Dental offers convenient after-school appointment times at our Edinburg dental office, so your child doesn’t have to miss class to get their needed cleanings and screenings. Not only will you be helping your child avoid painful dental conditions, unnecessarily school absences, and costly emergency room visits – you’ll also keep them smiling!

Patients love it here

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My husband and I visited Palm Valley Dental and Orthodontics and it was a rewarding experience. Dr. Torres and Dr. Trevino are so patient, knowledgeable and professional. Caleb, the Dental Hygienist is also very thorough and courteous. The office staff are so pleasant and helpful as well.
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Adalia De Luna

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Literally, the first time ever at dentist, went in terrified, left informed on my dental care/plan, and scheduled my return visit for the in depth cleaning. Overall, great experience, staff & doctor were attentive, professional and very receptive to all my questions and even the nervousness I displayed.
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Sandra Palomo

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I love this place. Aside from the amazing and comprehensive dental services, customer service and my time are really important to me. It is rare to find everything I care about in one place.
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Karla DeWald

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Dr. Treviño and staff are wonderful!! Very clean environment. Dr is so good I had a filling adjustment without being numbed up!! If that doesn't tell you how good they are, I don't know what will!!
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Issa Garcia

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I love this place. Aside from the amazing and comprehensive dental services, customer service and my time are really important to me. It is rare to find everything I care about in one place.
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Karla DeWald

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After experiencing a few negative experiences at a previous dental practice, I cautiously decided to try this new dental place. I had a wonderful first visit here and felt a great relief after my appointment. Everyone I encountered was so kind and friendly, and all my concerns and questions were addressed. I highly recommend. 😊
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Sandy