4 Facts About Children’s Dental Health Every Parent Should Know
September 30, 2021
How can you keep your child’s smile cavity-free throughout the years? At what age should you bring your little one to the dentist for the first time? Are your child’s baby teeth really that important? If you’re like most parents, these are just a few of the many questions you have pertaining to your child’s oral health. Wouldn’t it be great if you were handed a guidebook on caring for growing smiles? While that doesn’t quite exist, here’s a close second: facts about children’s dental health that every parent should know.
Fact #1: Tooth Decay is the Most Common Chronic Disease in Children
Did you know that more than 90% of Americans have had at least one cavity by their 21st birthday? It’s staggering statistics like these that have led the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to name tooth decay one of the most common chronic diseases in children. In fact, it’s currently only second to the common cold!
Fact #2: But It Is Preventable!
Despite the prevalence of tooth decay in children, it is important to know that cavities are largely preventable. Priority number one is to begin cleaning your child’s mouth even before their first tooth emerges. Throughout the years, keep in touch with their pediatric dentist to discuss best practices you should be implementing, like using a child-sized toothbrush or placing dental sealants on their molars.
Fact #3: Candy Isn’t the Only Cavity Causer
It’s certainly no secret that sugar is one of the biggest culprits of cavities. However, other foods pose the same risk, like crackers and bread. Snacks like these can cling to their teeth and lead to dry mouth, both of which are recipes for tooth decay.
Fact #4: Routine Visits to the Dentist Should Begin Around Their 1st Birthday
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should first go to the dentist when their first tooth emerges or by their first birthday. This will allow their dentist to monitor their development and give you advice on how to care for their smile from home. Plus, it’s a great way to set good dental habits in place from a young age!
Now you know a bit more about children’s dental health! Of course, if you have any specific questions about caring for growing smiles or would like to learn more about children’s dentistry, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a pediatric dentist.
About the Author
It was Dr. Allen Pearson’s own not-so-pleasant experience at the dentist as a child that inspired him to become the compassionate, skilled, friendly pediatric dentist he is today! He earned his dental doctorate from the Creighton University School of Dentistry before completing a one-year General Practice Residency at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Today, he is a board-certified pediatric dentist with nearly 20 years of experience! If you’re interested in learning more about your child’s dental health, don’t hesitate to visit his website or give him a call at 972-429-7070.