5 Myths About Children’s Dentistry

As a parent, you’re responsible for your child’s health, including their oral health. Knowing the right way to care for your child’s teeth can be confusing, but it’s important to be able to separate fact from fiction. Check out these five myths about children’s dentistry and learn the truth for yourself.

Myth #1: Primary Teeth Aren’t Important

Primary teeth are temporary and gone by about the age of 12, but they play an important role in your child’s oral health. If your child’s primary teeth decay, this can impact the health of permanent teeth. With a lot of plaque and bacteria sitting on the teeth and gums, it’s possible that permanent teeth can start to rot as soon as they erupt. Plus, if your child’s teeth have to be removed, it can make it difficult for permanent teeth to emerge properly because primary teeth are like guide markers for permanent teeth.

Myth #2: Children Don’t Need to See the Dentist Until They Are Older

It may not seem like a big deal to take your child to the dentist when they only have a couple of teeth, but it is. Don’t wait until your child has all their primary teeth, starts to develop permanent teeth or has a problem. Your child should be seen by a dentist for the first time once the first tooth erupts (but no later than the first birthday). It may seem silly to treat one tooth, but the dentist can determine if there are problems on the horizon, as well as teach you important at-home care.

Myth #3: Children Should Brush Their Own Teeth

This myth is partially true. Once your child is about seven years old (depending on their maturity), you should allow them to brush their own teeth. Until then, you should brush your child’s teeth for them. Once your child is old enough to start brushing their own teeth, don’t leave them alone. They may still not be able to thoroughly brush and remove all plaque and bacteria. You should continue to supervise them during brushing for a few years or until the permanent teeth are all erupted.

Myth #4: You Should Make Your Child Brush Directly After Eating

Brushing right after eating may seem like a good idea because it will immediately get rid of food particles and plaque, but this isn’t good for anyone, especially after consuming acidic foods or beverages, such as fruits, juices and soda. The acid in these foods and beverages soften the enamel. The harsh action of brushing can remove some of the enamel. Overtime, this can lead to serious problems. Have your child wait at least an hour before brushing after eating. You can have them rinse their mouth with water or chew sugar-free gum directly after meals.

Myth #5: Only Pediatric Dentists Can Treat Children

There are dentists called pediatric dentists who specialize in treating children’s teeth. However, that doesn’t mean that you have to take your child to a pediatric dentist. Family dentists are also perfectly capable of treating most children for most oral concerns. The benefit of choosing a family dentists is that your child can continue to see them as they grow, so they can develop a relationship that makes them feel more comfortable and confident at the dentist.

Your child’s oral health is important; it’s your job to ensure their smile is cared for properly at this young age. If you would like more information regarding children’s dentistry options, contact Landmark Dental Group today and start a conversation about your child’s oral health.