Parents are being urged to book a dental check-up for their children to see if any issues, such as tooth decay, have developed over the summer.

According to the Irish Dental Association (IDA), dental practices are safe for patients to attend and this is the perfect time of year to check children's teeth.

"Covid-19 has caused significant disruption this year. Children have had months with altered schedules and we are concerned that many children may have missed out on essential check-ups since schools closed in March. This time of year has always been associated with a dental check-up reminder and 2020 should be no different," explained the IDA's incoming president, Dr Anne O'Neill.

She said that check-ups are essential for children because problems that may have arisen since they last attended can be identified. Check-ups also get children used to the dental practice and ensure that good oral health habits are developed from a young age.

"This year we have all experienced the difficult changes related to the pandemic, and children have been out of their routines for the past number of months.

"While going back to school can be a very expensive time of year, it is a key reminder time for parents to book that dental check-up to build the positive relationship between children, their teeth, their habits and their dentist. It is also a good time to discuss and update our toothbrushes and toothbrushing habits with our children," Dr O'Neill said.

She insisted that the safety of patients has been prioritised by dentists and in fact, "they understand the details of infection control like few other businesses".

"They ensure that their practices are cleaned to the highest standard and they are following COVID-19 guidelines to mitigate any risk of infection. You should not be concerned about going to your dentist for a check-up," she said.

Dr O'Neill also pointed out that parents are best placed to influence food habits in children by ensuring that they have a healthy lunchbox for school.

"Parents should pack food that will sustain children for school time, avoiding sugary/fizzy drinks and snacks. Be aware of how much time children have for eating and opt for healthy foods. Cheese, fresh fruit, vegetable sticks, sandwiches, wraps, plain water or milk are all welcome additions to a lunchbox.

"For dental health, how often we have sugar is as important as how much, so it best to be limited during school hours," Dr O'Neill added.