Grace McAlister
Reporter1@riverbendnews.org
February is National Children's Dental Health Month, which is a month-long observance to bring together professionals, healthcare providers and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health to children. The American Dental Association looks to spread messages about developing good habits at an early age and the importance of scheduling regular dental visits. So, parents, what are some things you can do to help your children have healthy gums and strong teeth?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, 42 percent of kids aged two through 11 years old have tooth decay. However, by teaching kids to brush their teeth and building good dental hygiene habits, you can help your kids be among the 80 percent of kids who don't have untreated decayed teeth. Here are a few tips to prevent cavities and keep your child's beautiful smile healthy.
It's essential to get children in the habit of looking after and brushing their teeth as soon as the first tooth comes through. Using a small, soft toothbrush, babies and toddlers will need an adult to brush their teeth twice a day. For babies without teeth, a cloth can be used to clean the gums. When teeth push through, use a toothbrush with water only. For children aged 18 months to six years of age, you can use a pea-sized amount of age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste. Once children are around two years old, they can start to help brush their teeth by holding the toothbrush. Until your child is around eight years old, they should have adult supervision or help when cleaning teeth to make sure they brush properly. As your child's teeth start to fit closely together (usually between two and six-years-old), they should also be taught to floss their teeth daily. Young children are more likely to clean their teeth regularly if it is a fun activity and part of their usual routine. Singing songs, brushing with others (siblings or parents) and letting them choose their toothbrush or toothpaste are excellent ways to make a habit of brushing their teeth.
Your child should see a dentist by their first birthday. Early preventive care saves you money in the long run. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dental care costs are nearly 40 percent lower over five years for children who see a dentist by five years old. While you may think it's easier to bring your child to your "family dentist," going to one who specializes in children may be a better fit. Pediatric dentists work exclusively with kids and have seen almost everything, meaning they'll be ready to deal with behavioral issues or outright fear. In addition, they have techniques to help soothe your child, which you will both appreciate. They also do two to three extra years of advanced training after dental school, solely focusing on pediatric dentistry.
Many young children are apprehensive about losing their baby teeth— especially when it's the first one. As a parent, you can ease that nervousness considerably if you know the right things to say. One great way to get your child fully on board—and even quite excited— about losing teeth is the tooth fairy. This tried-and-true tradition tends to capture the imagination of young children quickly. If you want to promote positivity about losing teeth, consider buying a unique tooth fairy pillow or bag to stow the lost teeth in. The "tooth fairy" can then leave a little gift (typically cash) in the pillow or bag—don't forget to have some money or change on hand for these occasions! Kids may enjoy the tooth fairy tradition so much that they look forward to losing their baby teeth; knowing that they get a reward for their teeth might make them more willing to help the teeth along by wiggling them or allowing them to be pulled out.
When talking to your children about oral hygiene, the best idea is to keep the conversation fun and lighthearted. Trying scare tactics can backfire quickly and only induce anxiety. Instead, start by asking your child how his teeth feel, do they have any pain when they eat or drink, is there any discomfort during or after brushing. Also, ask them if they know why it is important to maintain healthy teeth. You may be surprised by how much your child knows and understands. However, if the answers are vague and confusing, this is a sign that you may need to talk to your pediatric dentist and figure out a way to reinforce the importance of good oral hygiene. Talking with your kids about healthy teeth and the proper way to brush and floss will not only build a trusting relationship but also get them to open up about problems they may have been hiding.
February is Children's Dental Health Month, but teeth last a lifetime. So, encourage your child to keep teeth healthy all year.