The Crucial Role of Maxillofacial Evaluation
With the summer break winding down, parents are gearing up for the back-to-school rush — buying new clothes, school supplies, and ensuring their children are prepared for the year ahead. However, there’s one crucial item that’s often overlooked in the back-to-school checklist: a dental checkup, and more importantly, a maxillofacial evaluation. Let’s delve into why this is so vital.
What is a Maxillofacial Evaluation?
A maxillofacial evaluation goes beyond a regular dental checkup. While a dentist typically checks for cavities, gum health, and basic oral hygiene, a maxillofacial surgeon assesses the health and structure of the jaws, temporomandibular joints (TMJ), and facial bones. They can identify congenital or developmental abnormalities, growths, and other potential concerns that might affect a child’s oral and overall health.
Why Before School Starts?
- Setting a Routine: Just as yearly physicals are routine, incorporating a dental and maxillofacial evaluation into your child’s annual preparation can set a precedent for maintaining good oral health throughout their life.
- Spotting Concerns Early: Early detection can make a world of difference in treatment options and outcomes. Whether it’s an impacted tooth, an irregular jaw growth pattern, or signs of TMJ disorders, catching these early can mean simpler treatments, fewer interventions, and better prognoses.
- Planning Treatment: If any intervention is required, such as wisdom teeth removal, orthognathic surgery, or other corrective procedures, identifying the need before the school year starts can allow for optimal scheduling. This can reduce the time a student misses from school and allows for a more comfortable recovery at home during breaks.
- Boosting Confidence: We cannot underestimate the link between oral health and self-confidence. Students with oral health issues may feel self-conscious. Addressing these issues can boost their confidence, making their school experience more positive.
Incorporating a maxillofacial evaluation into your back-to-school routine is not just about oral health but overall well-being. With early detection and intervention, many potential concerns can be addressed, leading to a happier, healthier school year for your child.
Learn more about our dental services and schedule your consultation today. All of our surgeons at Oral and Facial Surgery are board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and, with locations in Hagerstown, Maryland and Chambersburg, you’re sure to find an office nearby. Call us in Maryland at 301-791-1700 or 717-264-7828 in Pennsylvania. We look forward to answering your questions!
The information provided on this website should not be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition and is not meant to take the place of professional medical advice. If you think you have a medical problem, please seek the advice of a physician. Call 911 for all medical emergencies.
