You try to do your best to keep up with your child’s dental health. By reminding and helping them to brush and floss, taking them to the dentist for regular checkups, and watching their sugar intake, you are helping to set their smiles up for success. However, there is still so much about children’s dentistry that you probably aren’t aware of. Continue reading to learn some interesting facts about your kid’s smiles that you didn’t already know!
Tooth Decay Is Very Common
For children, tooth decay is the most common harmful dental condition that there is. When intreated, a small filling could turn into the need for an extraction and a lot of discomfort. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 42% of children between the ages of 2 and eleven will have at least one cavity. This is why it is so important that your child is maintaining excellent oral hygiene and seeing their dentist for a regular checkup. Be sure that your child’s toothpaste contains a mineral called fluoride. This helps to reinforce the enamel, keeping it safe from cavities.
Children Need to See a Dentist Before They Turn One
Most children don’t see a dentist for the first time until they are over two years old! However, this is not what’s recommended. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, you should bring your child in for a dental appointment by the time they turn one year old. Tooth development plays a key role with speech development and is necessary for proper nutrition. By bringing your child to the dentist, they can ensure that everything is developing properly.
Oral Care Is Important for Babies Too
While it isn’t usually necessary to take a young baby to the dentist, it is still important to keep up with their dental health at home. Before your child’s teeth erupt, you should wipe their teeth with a soft cloth. This helps to keep their teeth free of bacteria and prepare them for toothbrushing once their teeth come in. When they do, you will want to brush them twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste, both in the morning and at night.
Cavities Can Be Contagious
Cavities aren’t transmitted exactly the same way as a cold or flu. Streptococcus mutans, the strain of bacteria that is responsible for tooth decay, can be transmitted by a mother to her infant. This can happen as a result of blowing on hot food, sharing utensils, and kissing. It is important for mothers to maintain excellent oral hygiene as well for their own dental health and the dental health of their child.
Your child’s oral health is important, so you need to be informed. With an excellent oral hygiene routine and regular visits to a dentist, you can taking steps to help them achieve a healthy, happy smile!
About the Author
Dr. Ernie Costello is an experienced family dentist who graduated from the West Virginia University School of Dentistry. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Association, Chicago Dental Society, and Academy of General Dentistry. To learn more about children’s dentistry or to schedule an appointment for your child at his office in Arlington Heights, visit his website or call (847) 259-1111.