The care of a child’s primary, or “baby,” teeth is crucial to not only a child’s current dental health but to their overall health into the future, too. Parents must teach proper brushing as soon as the teeth erupt, usually around three months old, and then follow up with the first dental visit.
If these primary teeth are neglected, any resulting cavities can later affect the permanent teeth. Unfortunately, many parents have misunderstandings about their kid’s dental health. For these reasons, this article will debunk pediatric dental myths about children’s teeth and provide the facts that you need to know.
Pediatric Dental Health Myths
Almost 25% of kids between two and five years old develop dental cavities in their baby teeth. These children are more likely to have problems developing proper speech patterns, their permanent teeth may not come in correctly, and their intake of nutrients is often affected due to problems with chewing.
Parents must have the proper information about primary teeth and how to care for them. Here are the most common myths about pediatric dentistry.
Myth: Primary Teeth Don’t Need To Be Brushed
Wrong! A tooth is a tooth and they all need to be kept clean. Even if your child’s baby teeth look white and clean, their teeth must be brushed and even flossed as they come in. They do eat, so their teeth are just as susceptible to the accumulation of bacteria as yours are if they aren’t brushed.
If they are still taking a bottle at night to help them sleep, the sugar from what’s in the bottle is transferred to their teeth. The teeth must be brushed or bacteria will build up and turn into plaque and then cavities. (This is a good reason to eliminate a night-time bottle as soon as possible.)
Brushing their teeth will also teach children the importance of keeping their teeth clean. Show them how to do this themselves as soon as possible. Make a game of it. These lessons will last for a lifetime.
Myth: Dental Visits Are Only Necessary For Tooth Pain
Not true! Routine visits to a pediatric dentist should begin as soon as the first tooth erupts. This is critical for preventive care because it allows the dentist to address dental issues before they become painful or destructive. Difficulties in eating and speaking are also the consequences of poor dental care in children. If baby teeth fall out too soon, the alignment of the permanent teeth will be negatively affected as they come in.
Parents are advised to schedule their child’s dental checkups even if there are no oral problems. Help make the experience of going to the dentist fun and positive. Early exams will prepare your child for a lifetime of positive experiences at the dentist and are the best way to maintain optimal oral health.
Myth: X-Rays Can Harm Children And Should Be Avoided
Wrong! X-ray technology has evolved and is now considered safer than ever before. These X-rays produce radiation levels that are well below levels that could cause harm. And newer digital X-rays emit 80% less radiation than traditional film images.
X-rays are a valuable tool for diagnosing and preventing many dental issues in both adults and children. They show cavities that are hidden, they can assess a child’s dental development, and they pinpoint problems below the gumline.
While it is true that children may face a higher risk from X-rays because their cells are small and divide quickly, the benefits of diagnosing and preventing dental issues far outweigh the risks.
Myth: Flossing Isn’t Necessary Until the Permanent Teeth Come In
Not true! It doesn’t matter if the teeth being flossed are primary or secondary. All teeth should be flossed. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and down under the gumline. Toothbrushes don’t reach into many of these crevices, so flossing will be important as soon as teeth begin to erupt.
Myth: Orthodontic Treatment Is Not Necessary for Children
Another myth! If treatment will better prepare a child’s mouth for permanent teeth, early orthodontic intervention is often recommended by pediatric dentists. Early treatment typically begins around age eight or nine to assess the growth of the jaw and address a variety of bite problems.
Other orthodontic problems such as crowding of the teeth, too much space between the teeth, and protruding teeth can be genetic. Injuries can also require orthodontic help, as well as the early or late loss of baby teeth, or thumb-sucking habits.
Myth: Fluoride Is Dangerous for Kids
Fluoride is safe for children if used properly. And the benefits far outweigh the risks. The American Dental Association supports using fluoride toothpaste with children. It strengthens teeth and prevents cavities when used in small amounts with adult supervision until children can consistently prevent swallowing their toothpaste.
Putting Pediatric Dental Myths To Rest
Parents must have the proper information about their kids’ dental health. This is important in order to make informed decisions for their children and help them maintain healthy teeth and gums. Regular checkups with a pediatric dentist, proper nutrition, and early intervention for emerging problems will provide children with a lifetime of benefits.
Ready to schedule a consultation for your child? Our compassionate and experienced team at Wilmington Dental Associates is here to answer all your questions and help make your child feel comfortable and confident about their dental care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.