Routine oral care from a qualified professional is absolutely essential to keeping your teeth and gums in good health for life, and it’s especially important for children to enjoy regular checkups with their dentists every six months. Unfortunately, some people may have some inaccurate notions about how pediatric dentistry works. Here’s a brief look at a few popular falsehoods about kids’ dental care and why regular dental appointments are crucial.
Falsehood #1: Baby Teeth Don’t Need to Be Brushed
The primary teeth, also known as the baby teeth, play a variety of important roles for a child’s developing mouth, and dental infections can lead to severe pain as well as early tooth loss. The early loss of baby teeth can make it difficult for the adult teeth to grow in properly, which can lead to misalignments, hygiene difficulties, injuries, infections, and jaw pain.
Unfortunately, some people assume that it isn’t important to brush baby teeth since they will eventually fall out. The American Dental Association recommends that parents begin brushing their child’s first tooth as soon as it emerges using a soft-bristled brush and a tiny bit of toothpaste, and it’s also crucial to begin flossing their teeth as soon as they have two touching. The baby teeth also represent an opportunity for the child to develop excellent oral hygiene skills before they receive their permanent teeth, and it’s best for children to begin brushing and flossing independently around preschool age.
Falsehood #2: Juice Is Safe for Kid’s Teeth
While many people may want to assume that fruit juice must be a healthier alternative to soda pop and other soft drinks since it comes from plants, this is unfortunately not the case. The juices of many fruits like oranges, pineapples, apples, lemons, and berries are high in acids that erode enamel, sugars that feed harmful oral bacteria, and pigments that can leave unsightly dental stains. It’s best for your child’s primary beverage to be water, and regular unsweetened milk is an excellent secondary option.
Don’t let a few popular misconceptions lead to your child’s teeth receiving improper care. Consulting with your family’s dentist can help you understand how to keep your child’s smile in excellent condition.
About the Practice
G&G Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics offers the finest oral healthcare to kids in Lake Zurich and the surrounding areas. Led by Drs. Nicole, Cory, Hanna, and Xu, the staff ensures that each patient receives exemplary care in a warm and child-friendly office environment. Areas of expertise include preventive, restorative, and emergency dentistry for children. To learn more about children’s dental care, contact the office online or dial (630) 778-9500.