Children’s Dental Health Month

09 Feb Children’s Dental Health Month

February is Children’s Dental Health Month! There are a few common questions that we get from parents. So I thought, in theme with this special month, we could address these questions.

At what age should I begin to bring my child to the dentist?

The answer to this one can vary per child. Our rule of thumb is to start bringing them with you or a sibling around 2 years of age. This allows them to get used to the sights and sounds of the office. Then sometime between 2 and 3 they usually very happily jump into the chair and have their teeth checked. Some children are a little more apprehensive and take a bit longer. Of course, if at any time you have concerns or your child appears to have a dental issue they should be seen in the office.

My child’s new adult teeth look so yellow, is this normal?

Generally speaking, yes. Baby teeth are much whiter than adult teeth. So when the adult teeth are erupting they appear yellow in comparison.

How do I keep my child’s teeth clean?

Starting as infants with a wash cloth or finger cot to bigger kids with transitional teeth or braces – the teeth and gums need to be cleaned twice daily. From age 1-3 a lightly fluoridated toothpaste is fine. Once your child learns to spit,a pea-sized amount of regular fluoridated toothpaste is appropriate. I recommend an adult helping with the brushing until at least age 7. Children also need to floss – floss holders make this especially easy for their little hands.

Diet is  very important as well. Never place a baby to bed with a bottle. Milk contains sugars that can lead to decay.  Sippy cups should always contain water. Avoid sugary juices and foods when possible.

There is an adult tooth behind my child’s baby tooth… should I worry?

No. The baby tooth will generally loosen and the adult tooth will erupt into place. Rarely the adult tooth can completely miss its mark and the baby tooth will need to be extracted. Eruption patterns and issues are always checked at your child’s six month check up.

If you have any questions concerning your child’s oral health call us anytime. We love to see those smiles happy and healthy. Happy Brushing!!!