From their first gummy grin to their senior portraits, your child’s smile undergoes quite the transformation throughout the years. However, many parents aren’t aware of just how much work is needed to keep their teeth and gums in pristine condition every step of the way. Fortunately, with the right information in your arsenal, you can protect your little one’s smile from serious dental problems, like cavities. Keep reading to learn four facts about children’s dentistry that you may not know (but definitely should!).
1. Tooth Decay is the Most Common Childhood Disease
Did you know that more than 90% of Americans have had at least one cavity by their 21st birthday? Even more startling, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that more than 42% of children between the ages of 2 and 11 will have a cavity. This makes tooth decay 5x more common than childhood asthma and 20x more common than diabetes! The good news is that cavities are largely preventable with a solid at-home oral hygiene regimen and routine visits to the dentist.
2. Candy Isn’t the Only Cause of Poor Dental Health
From lollipops and sour gummies to gooey taffy, dentists around the world have shed light on the havoc candy can wreak on your child’s smile. However, sugary treats like these are by no means the only culprit of cavities. Other starchy snacks, like cookies, crackers, and even bread, can significantly increase your little one’s risk of tooth decay. So, make sure to save foods like these for special occasions and that they complete their oral hygiene routine shortly after indulging.
3. Your Child Should Visit the Dentist Around Their 1st Birthday
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, you should schedule your little one’s first dental checkup around their first birthday (or sooner if their first tooth emerges before then). Starting early on will not only protect their smile from cavities, but it will also allow your dental team to provide you valuable insight on product recommendations, proper dental care techniques, and more.
4. It’s Possible for a Child to “Catch” Cavities
Did you know that more than 70% of tooth decay cases are caused by the transmission of bacteria from a mother to her infant? Since the strain of bacteria, formally known as Streptococcus mutans, are transferred through saliva, even blowing on food and sharing utensils can indirectly cause cavities. Therefore, it’s equally as important for parents to prioritize their own oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting their dentist bi-yearly.
Your child’s teeth and gums don’t just help them smile, they also ensure they can chew properly and enunciate clearly. So, it’s not hard to see why prioritizing their oral health is so important. If your child’s next appointment is not already on the books, schedule theirs today!
About the Practice
At Cove Choice Dental, your child’s smile will benefit from the expertise, talent, and passion of five phenomenal dentists. Together, they provide patients of all ages with exceptional dentistry, a comprehensive array of treatments, and unmatched service that will keep their smiles happy and healthy throughout the years. If your child is overdue for their six-month checkup and cleaning or you would like to learn more about children’s dentistry, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team via website or by phone at 254-987-6777.