keep your child smiling with good dental health

It is hard to resist the joy that comes from seeing a big smile on your child! In February, we celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month, a time to remember the importance of taking good care of your child’s teeth, starting at an early age. As soon as your child’s first tooth starts to pop through, it is time to start regular brushing, avoiding high sugar foods and drinks, and going to the dentist, to keep your child healthy and smiling.

Did you know that cavities are the most common chronic disease of childhood? And more than half of children ages 6 to 8 have had at least one cavity? The good news is that most cavities are preventable by following a few simple steps.

Brush Teeth Twice Each Day – Even before your child has a visible tooth, you can start wiping their gums twice a day with a soft, clean cloth, aiming for after the morning feeding and right before bed. Once teeth come in, start brushing twice a day with a soft, small-bristled toothbrush, using plain water or a non-fluoride toothpaste. At age two (or before if recommended by your dentist), switch to a fluoride toothpaste, continuing to brush at least twice per day. Aim to brush for 2 minutes each time.

Avoid High Sugar Foods and Drinks – High sugar foods and drinks are a big culprit of cavities in kids! Stick with healthy fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and other nutritious foods. Avoid sugar-sweetened beverages like soda, juice boxes, sports drinks, and flavored milk. And when your child does have a sweet treat, be sure to brush right after!

Early Dental Check-Ups – Age two is too late! The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend every child visit a dentist by age 1, or as soon as the first tooth appears. This “well baby visit” teaches parents and caregivers how to care for their children’s teeth and help them stay cavity-free. After this first visit, be sure to continue taking your child to the dentist at least once per year.

Dental Sealants – Talk to our dentist about dental sealants, which are a great way to prevent cavities in your children’s permanent back teeth. Dental sealants are usually applied to the teeth starting at age 6. Many schools offer programs to have dental sealants applied right at school, so be sure to ask and find out.

Keep your children happy and healthy! Toothaches and cavities are not only painful for children, but it has been shown that children with poor oral health miss more school and receive lower grades than children who don’t. This February, brush up on your child’s dental routine to keep that smile looking good!

Jackson County: Healthy People, Strong Community.