As summer winds down and kids head back to school, parents everywhere are busy gathering supplies, organizing schedules, and preparing for the year ahead. Amid all the hustle, there’s one “back-to-school essential” that’s easy to forget: your child’s smile. Good oral health is about so much more than avoiding cavities. For children, healthy teeth and jaws are closely tied to confidence, clear speech, restful sleep, and even their ability to focus in class. At our office, we believe prevention is the most powerful tool parents have to support their child’s growth and overall well-being.
Why Prevention Matters
Cavities remain one of the most common chronic health conditions among children, but the good news is that they are highly preventable. By taking small, consistent steps, parents can dramatically lower their child’s risk of decay and set them up for lifelong oral health.
Some simple prevention strategies include:
• Healthy snacks: Replace sticky, sugary foods with tooth-friendly options like crunchy vegetables, apples, cheese, and nuts. These not only nourish the body but also help clean teeth naturally.
• Water first: Encourage water over juice or soda. Not only does it rinse away food particles, but it also supports the body’s natural ability to keep enamel strong.
• Watch for mouth breathing: Kids who primarily breathe through their mouths—especially during sleep—may be at greater risk for cavities, crowded teeth, and sleep issues. If your child snores or struggles with nasal breathing, it’s worth getting it checked.
• Stay consistent with dental visits: Regular checkups help us catch issues early and keep your child’s mouth on track, even during the busiest school months.
Exciting News for Our Office
This month, we’re thrilled to welcome a new doctor to our team who shares the same passion for prevention and whole-body health. Dr. Rania Haddad has been serving Southern Oregon families for over 15 years and is joining our office to expand our focus on children’s airway health and preventative orthodontics.
Dr. Haddad is a graduate of the Loma Linda School of Dentistry in Southern California where she graduated as a general dentist. Post-graduation she attended the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, where she trained in advanced cosmetic, neuromuscular, and restorative dentistry. Over her career, she has combined clinical excellence with a heart for community service, supporting programs like Reading is Fundamental and the Eagle Point Dental Scholarship, as well as ensuring underprivileged children have access to essential care.
Along with her extensive background in general and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Haddad shares a passion and dedication to helping children grow with healthier airways, stronger jaws, and brighter smiles. Her commitment to prevention perfectly aligns with our mission: empowering families to achieve wellness through natural, holistic dental care.
Back-to-school season is the perfect time to give your child the confidence that comes with a healthy smile. A checkup now can prevent problems during the busy months ahead and give kids the tools they need to succeed—in the classroom, on the playground, and in life.
