During the first several years of your child’s life, their mouth will go through drastic changes, from getting their first tooth to learning how to brush their teeth. As a parent, it can feel hard to keep up with all of these new developments; however, with key knowledge, you can help make the best decisions for your little one’s growing smile. Read on for four important dental facts every parent should learn!
Cavities are Common, But They Can Also Be Prevented
Cavities are one of the most common dental health problems among children globally. This is largely because they’re still learning how to properly care for their smile, including how to effectively brush and floss. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that over half of children between six and eight years old have had at least one cavity.
Although these may seem like difficult odds to beat, cavities can be prevented. Pediatric dentists recommend helping your child brush and floss their teeth until they hit the double digits, helping them learn the proper techniques and overseeing that they’re thorough. Even if your child does get some cavities, don’t be too hard on yourself– even pediatric dentists know that these things just happen!
Children Should Visit Their Dentist by One Year Old
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends bringing children to their first dental visit either by the time their first tooth erupts, or before their first birthday. These early checkups help establish a strong and comfortable relationship with the dental office, making future cleanings more enjoyable for children. They also allow parents to utilize their child’s pediatric dentist as an important educational resource during this key developmental time.
When it Comes to Dental Hygiene, the Earlier, the Better
Even though your child may not have any teeth yet, making sure their gums and tongue remain clean and free of bacteria accumulation is important! You can do so by wiping their gums and tongue after feeding with a clean, damp washcloth. This will remove any lingering milk or formula and help stimulate saliva production, which will naturally rinse debris from their mouth as well.
Sports are a Leading Cause of Dental Emergencies
As your child gets a little older, sports like soccer and football may pique their interest. However, participating in athletics without proper oral protection is a recipe for disaster, more specifically, for an unexpected trip to the emergency dentist. Guard your favorite smile with a custom-crafted sportsguard from their children’s dentist, drastically reducing their risk of breaking or knocking-out a tooth, as well as helping them avoid jaw trauma.
About the Author
Dr. Susan Podray-Donovan has over a decade of experience helping children maintain healthy and happy smiles by providing a wide range of preventive, restorative, and orthodontic services. She’s happy to see children from infancy up to 18 years old, as well as offer same-day emergency appointments for patients in pain. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Village Pediatric Dentistry’s website or call 678-456-5572.