Comfort Dental would like to set straight 5 myths about kids and their teeth.
Myth #1 – Kids are scared of the dentist
REALITY: Children respond well to dental visits if they know what to expect. Parents with positive attitudes pass on this positive attitude to their children.
If your child is nervous (or even if they are not ) – you’ll likely be surprised at how much better the dental visit goes if you remain in the waiting room. Children get signs from their parents and the message of “you can do this alone” speaks volumes that you trust the care of your dentist, and your child has nothing to worry about.
Myth #2 – If your child is old enough for kindergarten, they can do their own brushing
REALITY: Younger children generally do not have the ability to clean their teeth well.
By 8 or 9 years of age, children usually develop sufficient dexterity to brush their own teeth. However, most will need reminders, as well as supervision of their brushing and flossing for a few years to come.
CLICK HERE to Learn More About Teaching Healthy Dental Habits
Myth #3 – Babies don’t need oral care
REALITY: Home oral care should start as soon as possible. Even before the baby’s teeth have come through, parents can start cleaning their gums with a soft baby toothbrush or a cloth and water. This can help soothe gums as teeth begin to come through as well.
As soon as first teeth make an appearance, clean teeth and gums gently with a small, soft toothbrush. No toothpaste is needed. Fluoride toothpaste should not be used until the child can begin to understand not to swallow the paste, generally age three.
Myth #4 – Candy and soda are the only foods parents need to restrict
REALITY: Many foods contain sugar serving to increase the risk of tooth decay. Read food labels carefully, as many processed foods that might not taste sweet contain a substantial amount of sugar – such as potato chips and ketchup.
A glass of soda contains 6 to 8 teaspoons of sugar, and fruit juice also packs a lot. (Eating fresh fruit is a much more healthy way to enjoy fruit.) Limit such drinks, read labels and give kids a healthy, balanced diet. Both milk or water are great choices for little ones to drink.
Myth #5 – When kids start losing teeth, parents’ only job is playing Tooth Fairy
CLICK HERE to Learn More about Tooth Arrival Schedule
REALITY: Primary teeth usually start getting loose around 6 years of age. Around this time, the first permanent molars also come through. It is important to brush these new teeth regularly.
Tooth alignment may be irregular during the transition to permanent teeth. Effective cleaning takes patience and help from parents is so important.
Dr. Brucken and Dr. Stubbs see the importance of dental care at all stages. Getting a good start is important as we strive for healthy smiles for a lifetime!
