Top 5 Children’s Oral Health Facts Every Parent Should Know

Are you a first-time parent with a little bundle of joy on the way? Do you already have multiple kiddos? You may be unsure of what to expect as your child matures and their mouth develops, but there are a few important things regarding their oral health that you should be aware of.

Read on to learn the top five children’s dental health facts every parent should know.

Tooth Decay is the Most Common Dental Problem in Children

Did you know tooth decay is five times more common than childhood asthma? It’s one of the most prevalent chronic conditions among kids—more than 42% of children between the ages of 2 and 11 will have a cavity.

If left untreated, dental decay may cause serious damage to your child’s overall health. Oral infections can enter the bloodstream and lead to additional major health problems that can create issues with eating, speaking, playing, and learning.

Cavities Can Be Prevented

Even though cavities are one of the most chronic childhood diseases, they can be prevented by:

• Using fluoride toothpaste and drinking fluoridated water. Fluoride varnish can prevent and reverse the early stages of tooth decay.
• Making sure your child follows a proper oral hygiene regimen. They should brush their teeth twice a day and floss daily.
• Limiting your child’s sugar intake. Offer calcium-rich snacks like cheese or plain yogurt instead of sweet treats and drinks.
• Applying dental sealants. They are a great option for children who are prone to cavities because they act as barriers that protect the teeth from tooth decay. Consult with your pediatric dentist to determine if it’s the best choice for your child.

Proper Dental Care Should Start During Infancy

Instilling healthy habits is important, especially during infancy. Babies and children under the age of one are at risk of developing oral infections by drinking milk, formula, or fruit juice from their bottle frequently. A child’s mouth should be cleaned after every feeding or snack even before they have teeth to prevent infections.

Before the teeth erupt, use an infant toothbrush or soft washcloth to wipe their gums twice a day to keep them free of bacteria. As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, start brushing with a rice-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste.

First Tooth Means First Dental Visit

Most new parents may not know when to take their child in for their first dental checkup. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends taking your child within six months of their first erupted tooth, or right around their first birthday.

Your pediatric dentist will check the child’s mouth to ensure their baby teeth are growing properly, as they are crucial to the development of adult teeth.

It’s Possible to Save a Broken or Knocked Out Permanent Tooth

It can be unsettling when a child knocks out an adult tooth, but the good news is it can be saved and reattached if proper measures are taken.

You should try to reinsert the tooth into the socket and have your child hold it in place until you reach the dentist. If you’re unable to do that, you can preserve the tooth in a cup of milk or saltwater. Regardless, you should schedule an emergency dental visit immediately.

Regular dental checkups and proper dental care are the best things you can do to keep your child’s oral health in its best shape. Following these tips can put your little one down the right path to a healthy, beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.

About the Practice

Bear Creek Family Dentistry is comprised of general dentists and specialists in pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, and prosthodontics who share a passion for keeping everyone’s smile whole and healthy for a lifetime. We offer quality services and treatments for people of all ages, so the whole family can enjoy a comfortable and safe dental experience. For more information, visit our website or call (972) 331-8100.