Taking care of your oral health involves more than brushing your teeth every morning and night. While good at-home habits are essential, your mouth can still develop problems that require professional attention. In fact, the World Health Organization identifies dental caries, periodontal disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer among the most common oral health conditions worldwide.

The good news? Many oral health problems are preventable or easier to treat when they’re caught early.

Back-to-school season means new classrooms, busy schedules, sports practices, playground adventures, and plenty of excitement. While parents are checking off school supplies and making sure their children are ready for the first day, dental safety can easily get overlooked.

A dental emergency can happen when you least expect it, but a few simple precautions can reduce your child’s risk of a painful tooth injury. From sports protection to everyday habits, these back-to-school safety tips can help keep your child’s smile healthy throughout the school year.