Many people associate February with heart-shaped cards and roses for Valentine’s Day, but did you know that it’s also Children’s Dental Health Month? There’s no better time to remind parents about the importance of their kid’s oral well-being than when every store shelf is full of chocolate, candies, and other tasty treats. If you’re not sure what’s involved in your little one’s dental condition and why regular visits to their pediatric dentist are so important, keep reading to find out!
Why Is Pediatric Dental Awareness Important?
It’s not uncommon for parents to wait until their child has a full mouth of teeth to schedule their first visit with their pediatric dentist. Unfortunately for many kids, by then they’ve already sustained some damage to their pearly whites. For example, more than half of children between 6 to 8 years old have had cavities in at least one of their baby teeth.
Fortunately, this can be prevented with a consistent at-home dental hygiene routine combined with regular visits to the dentist. It’s recommended that they have their first appointment at about one year old and then every 6 months after that to monitor their still-developing smiles. This ensures that if any issues arise, their dentist can address them before they progress.
How Can Parents Help Maintain Their Child’s Oral Health?
Unfortunately, no one hands new parents a guidebook on how to keep their kid’s grin in tip-top shape. If you’re wondering what you can do to keep their teeth and gums happy, you’re not alone. Below are some helpful tips that can enhance their dental well-being:
For Babies:
- Wipe their gums twice daily with a soft, clean cloth to clear away sugars that attract cavity-causing bacteria.
- Begin brushing their earliest teeth with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and water.
For Children:
- Have them brush their teeth morning and night with fluoride toothpaste. This removes germs and strengthens their protective enamel.
- Floss after brushing to clear away any particles from between their teeth and underneath their gumline.
- Ask their dentist about applying dental sealants to protect their pearly whites.
- Switch out sugar snacks for more wholesome choices like fruit, vegetables, yogurt, and cheese. This supports healthy teeth and gums.
- Find out whether your community’s water is fluoridated. Drinking tap water with fluoride keeps them hydrated while preventing cavities.
Now that you know more about children’s dental needs, you can implement consistent at-home routines to help keep your little one’s smile in excellent condition!
About the Author
Dr. Dhavalkumar Rana has nearly 10 years of experience providing families in his community with high-quality dental treatments to improve their oral well-being. He earned his dental doctorate at the prestigious New York University and has continued to hone his skills through regular educational opportunities. He offers a wide range of services under one roof so no matter your child’s dental needs, he can meet them. Plus, with state-of-the-art technology, you’re sure to get the most current and accurate treatments. You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (469) 399-7288.