4 Children’s Dental Health Facts Parents Should Know

If you are a parent of a young child, then you know how busy things can be. From making sure they do their schoolwork to organizing carpool schedules, it can sometimes be hard to keep up with everything. Even so, it’s important not to let things like your little one’s oral health be forgotten. Continue reading to learn about four facts about children’s oral health that you should know.

#1: Tooth Decay Is the Most Common Childhood Disease

Tooth decay is the most common childhood condition, with it being five times more common than asthma as well as 20 times more common than diabetes. Cavities are usually the result of poor oral hygiene. It’s important to teach your child about brushing and flossing properly. They need to brush twice daily for two minutes as well as to floss every night.

#2: Good Oral Hygiene Starts Earlier Than You Think

As soon as your child’s teeth start to come in, they will be vulnerable to cavities. This means that it’s important to teach them about how practicing good oral hygiene from an early age can help them maintain a healthy beam.

You can start brushing your child’s teeth with a small amount of fluoridated children’s toothpaste and a baby-sized toothbrush as soon as they appear. Additionally, you should begin to floss between their pearly whites as soon as at least two of them start to touch.

#3: Candy Isn’t the Only Cause of Cavities

Sugar in the foods and drinks your child consumes feeds the bacteria that cause cavities. Though sweets are often seen as the main cause of tooth decay, they aren’t the only ones.

Foods and beverages that are high in starches and carbs break down to sugar in the mouth, so they can harm their smile in the same way. Additionally, foods and drinks that are high in acid can eat away at their tooth enamel. Encourage them to eat a dentist-approved diet consisting of dairy, lean meats, fish, nuts, fresh fruits and veggies, and leafy greens.

#4: Tooth Decay in Baby Teeth Matters  

Even though your child’s baby teeth aren’t permanent, it’s still important to keep them healthy. If your child develops a cavity in one of these teeth, it’s important to have it treated as soon as possible. Neglecting to do so will allow the cavity to worsen, which may lead to a tooth infection. Visiting their dentist will allow them to receive prompt treatment and get their smile back on track.

About the Practice

The Dental Spot of Collegeville treats patients of all ages. They offer exceptional care to patients in Collegeville as well as the surrounding communities. This includes children’s services to help their young patients keep their smiles in good condition. If you want to set up an appointment with Dr. Bradford Plasha or to learn more about their children’s dentistry services, call The Dental Spot of Collegeville’s office at (484) 854-6900 or visit their website.