As a new parent, you quickly realize there is a ton of information to know about raising a child and how you’re never fully prepared to be a mother or father. You get advice, whether you ask for it or not, from every direction, but when it comes to your child’s developing smile, you should understand a few things to keep it healthy and strong. Keep reading to learn about five facts about children’s dental health.
Fact 1: Cavities Are the Most Common Disease for Children
Worldwide, the disease that afflicts more children than any other is tooth decay. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about half of American children between the ages of 6 and 8 have at least one cavity on a baby tooth, and half of adolescents have at least one cavity on a permanent tooth.
Fact 2: Children Should Start Visiting the Dentist at One Year Old
When your child has just a few teeth, it may seem early to start six-month dental visits, but around the time they turn one year old is the right time to begin these essential appointments. Your pediatric dentist can keep a close eye out for cavities but also monitor your baby’s oral development as they grow. Plus, these early visits can help your child feel comfortable in the dentist’s office, making later visits easier and more enjoyable for everyone.
Fact 3: Cavities Can Be Prevented
Although cavities are common, they are largely preventable. Through daily brushing and flossing, along with regular dental visits, cavity-causing bacteria can be controlled and stopped from causing damage to your child’s teeth.
Fact 4: Candy Is Not the Only Cause of Cavities
Candy is the easiest culprit to identify, but it is far from being the only cause of tooth decay. Any sugary substance, such as juice, sports drinks, and even dried fruits, can encourage bacterial growth inside the mouth. Foods that are high in carbs, like cookies, bread, and crackers, also break down similarly to sugar and can lead to cavities, which is why you should limit these kinds of foods and establish a healthy dental care routine. Providing your child with a nutritious, well-balanced diet can help minimize their risk of cavities.
Fact 5: Baby Teeth Are Important
Even though your child will eventually lose their primary or baby teeth naturally as they grow, this doesn’t mean that they don’t serve an important purpose. These teeth need to be healthy for as long as possible because they hold a place for the permanent teeth that come after them. If a baby tooth is lost too soon, the adult tooth may erupt more misaligned that it would otherwise. Without these tiny teeth, your child would not be able to bite or chew foods until much later in life, so it’s critical to take care of them from the moment they erupt.
Being a new parent isn’t easy, and there’s no manual, but you don’t have to struggle alone. When you work with a pediatric dentist, who is specifically trained to help children, you can become knowledgeable about how to help your favorite smile stay bright and healthy into their adult years!
About the Author
Dr. J. Patrick Bowman, or Dr. Patrick as he prefers to be called by his patients, is a board-certified pediatric dentist who owns and operates Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry. In his advanced studies, he has undergone rigorous training in oral development, child behavior management, and more. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Patrick, you can contact his practice, Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry, online or by calling the office at 720-647-6310.