It’s hard for a student to focus on schoolwork if they have a raging toothache, and studies show that children with poor oral health often underperform at school. While you’re busy getting your child school supplies, books, and immunizations for the new school year, make sure to schedule them for an end-of-summer dentist’s appointment. Read on to learn how good oral health can put a child in a better position for academic achievement.

Most oral health conditions are largely preventable and can be treated in their early stages. That being said, tooth trouble still poses a major health burden for many countries and can affect a person at virtually any point throughout their lifetime. Furthermore, poor oral health is associated with other chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. To prevent more serious oral health issues, here is how you can reduce your risk for the 3 most common oral health problems.