As summer winds down and backpacks come out of storage, families across Omaha are preparing for the return to school routines. Amid all the checklists—school supplies, sports physicals, new shoes—there’s one appointment you don’t want to skip: the back-to-school dental cleaning.

At 90th & Dodge Family Dentistry, we know how hectic August can get. That’s why we always recommend scheduling your child’s dental checkup before the school year starts. Here’s why it matters—and how to help your kids get back into healthy habits.

Beat the Back-to-School Rush

Our schedule fills up quickly once school begins—and the earlier you book, the better chance you have of getting a time that works well for your family’s routine. Plus, by checking this off your list now, you can avoid pulling your child out of class for an appointment later in the semester.

Set the Tone for a Healthy School Year

Dental cleanings aren’t just about checking for cavities. They’re a chance to prevent problems before they start and reinforce healthy habits with your child in a way that’s positive and encouraging.

A fresh cleaning, fluoride treatment, and any necessary X-rays can help ensure your child heads back to school feeling confident—and with a healthy smile to match.

Reset the Routine

Let’s be honest: brushing and flossing routines often slide a bit during summer. Later nights, sleepovers, and vacations can throw off even the most diligent dental hygiene habits.

Back-to-school is the perfect time to re-establish good routines. Here are a few tips to get back on track:

  • Make it visible: Keep toothbrushes and floss in a spot your kids can’t miss. A fun toothbrush or toothpaste can also help boost motivation.
  • Tie it to the schedule: Brushing before school and before bed works best when it’s built into the routine—right after breakfast and right before story time, for example.
  • Use a timer or song: Two minutes can feel like forever to a kid. Use a timer, playlist, or even a favorite tooth-brushing video to keep things fun.

We’re Here to Help

Whether it’s your child’s first cleaning or just a routine checkup, our team is here to make it a comfortable, stress-free experience for you both. Our office is warm and welcoming, and we pride ourselves on taking time to explain care in a way that builds confidence—especially for young patients.

Let’s start the school year strong with healthy smiles and happy habits. Call us today to schedule your back-to-school cleaning.