As a parent or guardian of a child with a still-developing smile, one of your responsibilities is to help care for their teeth and gums until they’re grown enough to take on that task themselves. For instance, you can help brush their teeth and gums until they’re big enough to gently scrub their enamel twice daily without your assistance.
However, many well-meaning adults have heard misinformation about their child’s oral health that can potentially be harmful. Continue reading to learn about 3 common myths about your kid’s dental condition that you shouldn’t believe!
Myth #1: My Child Needs All Their Primary Teeth for a Dental Visit
Although everyone is unique, most children begin developing their baby, or primary, teeth between six months and one year old. Typically, the front upper teeth are the first to arrive, and the rest gradually fill in over the next two to three years.
Some adults believe that there’s no need to take their kids for a dental exam or cleaning until they have a full set of teeth to care for, but nothing could be further from the truth. Bacteria in the mouth can penetrate the gums and cause disease that can spread to developing baby or adult teeth before they erupt. As a result, the American Dental Association recommends scheduling their first appointment when they cut their first tooth, then following up every six months thereafter to monitor their condition.
Myth #2: Cavities in Baby Teeth Don’t Matter
Some parents and guardians mistakenly assume that there’s no need to worry about cavities in their little one’s primary teeth because they eventually fall out anyway to make room for their adult ones. However, you might be surprised to learn that tooth decay is contagious, and the longer it remains untreated, the more likely it is to spread.
Your child’s cavities could eventually affect their jawbone or even trigger infection or disease in their connective tissues. Not only that, but they can affect the condition of the adult teeth even before they’ve erupted. That means it’s essential to help your child brush and floss twice daily and to schedule a checkup with your family dentist if you notice any areas of concern, such as damaged or decayed enamel.
Myth #3: Fruit Juice Won’t Harm Oral Health
Do you struggle to get your child to eat healthy foods and drinks? Many young people avoid nutritious foods, such as fruits and vegetables, and opt for less healthy beverages, too.
One popular way many parents encourage their children to consume certain nutrients is through flavored fruit juices, such as apple or orange juice. While these might seem wholesome, they often contain high sugar content. That means they attract harmful bacteria that cause common dental issues, such as cavities and gum disease. Minimizing your kid’s consumption can therefore help preserve their smile.
If you have additional questions about helping to protect your child’s dental health, you can learn more by scheduling an appointment with your family dentist!
Meet the Author
Dr. Ahmed Hakwati has more than 10 years of experience helping people of all ages build and maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. He earned his dental degree from Damascus University and then went on to graduate with a second degree from the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. Today, he provides a comprehensive menu of services, including family dentistry, to meet your unique needs under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (978) 297-0675.