Between books at the store, videos on YouTube, and advice from well-meaning family members, it can be hard not to experience information overload as a parent. This is especially true when it comes to developmental milestones and your baby’s health. That’s why we’re keeping it simple: five important facts about children’s dentistry.
1. Biannual Dental Visits Should Start Around Age 1
After each feeding, parents are encouraged to use a damp washcloth to wipe down their baby’s gums. Then, around their first birthday (or when their first tooth emerges), you should bring them in for their first dental checkup. In addition to examining the condition of their teeth and gums, their pediatric dentist will give you tips for everything from teething to preventing cavities!
2. Tooth Decay Is Largely Preventable
Speaking of cavities… They are five times more common than childhood asthma and 20 times more common than diabetes! Don’t worry – they are also largely preventable with a solid oral hygiene regimen in place. That’s why parents are encouraged to start brushing their child’s teeth as soon as they make an appearance and flossing as soon as two teeth touch.
3. Candy Isn’t the Only Cause of Cavities
When it comes to cavities, candy is usually named the number one culprit. The reality is that any foods or drinks that are packed with sugar can lead to tooth decay, including fruit juice. That’s why it’s best to offer smile-friendly, nutrient-dense, and low-sugar foods when possible, like plain yogurt.
4. Baby Teeth Are Important
One of the biggest misconceptions is that baby teeth aren’t important because they eventually fall out. That’s simply not the case! In addition to helping your child chew, healthy teeth play an important role in speech development and self-esteem. Plus, they serve as a placeholder until their adult ones are ready to make an appearance.
5. Cavities Can Negatively Impact Academics
Parents often don’t realize just how negative of an impact cavities can have on their child’s lives, like their performance at school. Not only do those with poor dental health often miss valuable time in the classroom, but it can be hard for them to concentrate when they are in class because of tooth pain. That’s why parents are encouraged to schedule a dental checkup and cleaning for their child during back-to-school season!
About the Practice
At Simply Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we know how much you have on your plate as a parent. That’s why we do our best to be an ongoing resource when it comes to the dental care of infants, teens, and everyone in between! If you want to schedule your child’s next checkup or schedule an emergency exam because they are struggling with tooth pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Randolph pediatric dental team via our website or by phone at (781) 767-7200.