February is National Children’s Dental Health Month

The American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children’s Dental Health Month each year to raise awareness about the importance of oral health in kids. We want to get in on the awareness and devote this month’s blog to the importance of children’s dental health. Check out these tips and facts about your kids’ teeth and why you should keep up with their dental hygiene in Studio City.

Did you know the top dental problem among preschoolers in this country is tooth decay? It’s true. So are these stats, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics:

• One out of 10 two-year-olds already has one or more cavities
• By the age of three, 28 percent of kids have at least one cavity
• By the age of five, almost 50 percent of kids have one or more cavities

Many parents wrongly assume that cavities in baby teeth won’t be a problem because their child will lose them eventually. However, dental decay in baby teeth can adversely affect permanent teeth and result in future dental problems.

How to Teach Good Dental Habits

The optimal way to protect your child’s teeth is to teach him or her good dental habits. This will help your child adopt strong oral hygiene regimens as part of a daily routine. But just remember that small children don’t have the dexterity, control or concentration to brush teeth on their own. At first, you’ll have to show them how to do it. Supervise the brushing so that all plaque is removed. If you see any areas of brown or white spots, call the dentist, as this can signal early decay.

Toothbrushing

Once children get their first tooth, you should brush it twice a day with a tiny bit of fluoride toothpaste (size of grain of rice) on a toddler-sized toothbrush with soft bristles.

Once they turn three, you can use a pea-size amount of toothpaste to help prevent cavities. Make sure your child knows not to swallow it. This can lead to white or brown spots on their future adult teeth.

Brushing Motion

Direction doesn’t really matter. What’s more important is to clean each tooth thoroughly — top and bottom, inside and out. Do this for small children, then by age six or seven, they should be able to handle this themselves.

Too Much Sugar

Diet plays a vital role in dental health, especially in kids, who typically love sweets. Long and frequent exposure to sugar on the teeth means greater risk of cavities. Stay away from caramel, toffee, gum, fruit snacks, sticky candy and dried fruit. If they do eat a treat, encourage them to brush right afterwards.

Dental Checkups

Twice-yearly dental checkups are essential in ensuring healthy teeth in your kids. Their dentist will clean their teeth and ensure all teeth are developing normally. They’ll also check the gums to ensure optimal oral health. The dentist may also apply a topical fluoride solution for extra protection against cavities.

Contact Studio City Dental Center

To book an appointment for your child, contact us today at 818-762-2977 or fill out our online form.