February is officially National Children’s Dental Health Month. This is an excellent time to highlight how important dental health is for children, but at your Johns Creek family dentistry practice, every month is an important month to pay attention to the oral health of kids.
Children have different oral health needs than adults. Yes, brushing and flossing are essential no matter who you are or what age you are. However, children are on a unique dental journey that changes from month to month and year to year until all their permanent teeth have come in.
Kids are getting teeth.
Teething is a rite of passage for every parent. It’s not fun for you or your child, but once those first teeth pop through, there is never a bad time to see your Alpharetta area dentist. In fact, it is recommended that your child see a dentist by age one. This visit is less about cleaning teeth and more so about starting the dental relationship off on the right foot.
Give your child the gift of appreciating oral health care and feeling comfortable at the dentist. So many adults avoid their Alpharetta dentist because they have anxiety about dental care. Putting the spotlight on good dental care and making it a priority early will help your children take care of their teeth now and for the rest of their lives.
Kids are losing baby teeth.
The Tooth Fairy years. The loss of that first baby tooth is so exciting! It also means that things are starting to shift in your child’s mouth, permanent teeth are making their way to the surface, and you will get a good idea of whether their teeth will erupt crookedly or straight.
Your child may be apprehensive about the dentist at this age because their teeth are so unpredictable, but don’t avoid the dentist just because their teeth are changing. Your child’s healthy teeth allow them to eat better, develop their speech properly, and help them feel confident about how they look.
Cavities are a possibility.
There are several factors that can contribute to kids developing cavities:
- Constant snacking (which bathes teeth in an ongoing bath of sugar and bacteria).
- Not brushing (when kids are left to their own devices, they may opt to skip the brushing and flossing as often as possible).
- Timid brushing (all those loose teeth can stress your kid out and make them nervous to brush for fear of bumping the tooth, creating a weird sensation, or causing the gum to bleed)
Once permanent molars come in, your Johns Creek dentist may recommend dental sealants for your child as a precaution against cavities.
Parents Are Responsible for Their Child’s Dental Health
Just as you feed and clothe and bath your young children, so too should you have a hand in their oral health care routine. Brush your child’s teeth every morning and night. If they want some independence, allow it, but supervise to make sure the job is done thoroughly. Floss your kid’s teeth and, when they’re ready, show them how to do it themselves. Use mouthwash as directed.
Above all, take your child to the dentist. Baby teeth may seem like they are low on the priority list because they’re just going to fall out anyway, but good oral health habits must start young. And keeping your child’s baby teeth healthy will save important space for permanent teeth.
Show your child the importance of dental health by taking them for a dental exam and checkup every six months. Contact Family & Cosmetic Dental Care in Johns Creek to make an appointment with Dr. Mitul Patel for any member of your family.
