Many people are under the impression that baby teeth are not as important as permanent teeth. Baby teeth are essential to good health and a positive self image. They help your child eat properly and develop proper speech patterns. They also hold the spaces for the permanent teeth that will replace them, so if they are lost prematurely, these spaces close and will create orthodontic problems.
Studies have shown that one half of the children in the United States 12 years and younger don’t have any cavities. With good oral care and nutrition, every child can be “cavity free”. The major reasons for cavities developing are snacking frequently between meals, inadequate oral hygiene, and not obtaining enough fluoride.
Every child should visit the pediatric dentist or family dentist by their first birthday. This visit is two-fold: First, to check for problems that arise early, such as the pattern of severe cavities that form when falling asleep with a bottle containing milk or juice. Second, to give the parents advice on oral home care and nutrition and to answer any questions they may have. It is also best for your child to be exposed to the dentist and the office when treatment is preventive, before problems arise, and to prevent them from occurring.
An indicating milestone that a child can brush his teeth on his own is when he can tie his own shoelaces. This is usually at about 5 or 6 years of age. Until the child reaches this milestone, the actual brushing which cleans the teeth should be done by the parent or guardian. After the teeth are properly brushed, the child can be allowed to “brush” their own teeth with a small amount of toothpaste on a soft-bristle toothbrush. This allows independence and allows the child to enjoy his brushing experience. Children under 2 years of age should use non-fluoridated toothpaste, because they usually swallow most of the toothpaste and the amount of fluoride in toothpaste can be harmful to the developing permanent teeth if swallowed.
Staring a child with good oral home care and nutrition will develop good habits to keep their teeth healthy for life.