National Childrens Dental Health Month

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases of children, now found to be more common than asthma and hay fever.  More than 16 million children suffer from dental health issues - 40% are suffering by kindergarden age.
Good oral health in children translates to healthy adult teeth. Many parents know that they want to prevent tooth problems for their children but dont know the best way to do so and have a tough time judging how much dental care their kids need.

The good news is tooth decay is preventable! To honor February as National Children's Dental Health Month we would like to promote good oral health in chilrdren; here are some tips:

• LEAD BY EXAMPLE - The best way to teach a child good dental habits is to show them. Have your children watch you care for your teeth and have them brush and floss with you when they are able.  The sooner you introduce dental care the more routine it will become.
• HOME CARE- Begin brushing your childs teeth as soon as they come in.  You should use a soft tooth brush and water twice daily. Consult with a dentist before using tooth paste. As soon as the teeth begin to touch floss start flossing! Help your kids with brushing and flossing until about age 6 or until they can tie their shoes on their own or cut their own meat.  
• HAVE HEALTHY EATING HABITS- One of the major cavity causing culprits is sticky - sugary foods and drinks. The issue is not really the amount of sugar but how often they are exposed to it. Don't allow young children to carry around sippy cups containg juice, especially at bed time. Always chose sugar free gum and snacks when possible! Limiting these snack between meals will greatly decrease your childs chances at having dental issues.
• VISIT YOUR DENTIST- Ideally, your child should see a dentist by his or her first birthday.  Not only do these visits help with early detection but they help kids get used to visiting the dentist so they'll be less fearful as they get older. Children, like adults, should see the dentist every 6 months. A published report found that even cost of dental care is significantly lower for patients who begin preventative care at an early age.
• THUMB SUCKING AND PACIFIERS- Although these issues are not the cause of decay in childrens teeth they are highly responsible for developmental abnormailities. Avoid misalignment by monitoring excessive sucking of pacifiers and thumbs and try to curb the habit before age 5.

For more tips and information or if you have any questions about childrens dental health feel free to contact us!