When it comes to taking care of growing smiles, you might hear a bunch of things at once. What you read online may differ from what your friends and family have said. You might feel at a loss about children’s dentistry because of this, but you should learn the facts, as there are several myths that surround it. Here’s the truth behind four misconceptions you need to know to feel confident taking care of your loved one’s tiny teeth.
Myth #1:Baby Teeth Don’t Matter Since They Are Temporary
Since baby teeth will eventually fall out, many believe you don’t need to take much care of them. However, this isn’t the case at all. Although they are temporary, they play a big role in your child’s oral development as they help them chew and speak while also being placeholders.
Losing them earlier than expected because of decay or damage can cause problems later on. You should start brushing them as soon as the first one erupts with a grain-of-rice-sized amount of toothpaste to keep them strong.
Myth #2: Kids Don’t Need to Visit the Dentist Until They Start School
Some parents believe dental visits aren’t needed until their adult teeth come in. The reality behind this is that you should schedule an appointment with their pediatric dentist as early as their first birthday or within six months of their first baby tooth erupting, according to The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Not only will this help build good habits, but it can also help identify any problems before they become worse as your loved one gets older.
Myth #3: Only Candy and Sugar Cause Cavities
Sugar does play a big role in decay, but it’s not the only culprit. Carbohydrates in things like bread and crackers can also lead to cavities. Like sweets, they feed the bacteria in your child’s mouth, which produce enamel-dissolving acid.
Not only that, but seemingly innocent things like dried fruit and granola bars can be shockingly sugary and sticky! Help your child have a balanced diet with proper oral hygiene, and you can do your best to prevent any issues.
Myth #4: Fluoride is Unsafe for Growing Smiles
If you haven’t given your child fluoride, then it’s understandable to be nervous about it. You might want to know about all the ins and outs of it beforehand, but it’s actually a great way to avoid dental problems. In appropriate amounts, this mineral can prevent decay by strengthening their enamel.
You might’ve heard that fluoride can lead to dental fluorosis, but it’s often a rare condition. By using dental products as recommended, your loved one can avoid it while making sure they benefit their oral health.
In the end, you should learn the facts about children’s dentistry. By talking to their pediatric dentist, you can bust any other myths you might’ve heard and get started on properly taking care of their growing smile.
About the Practice
At Barefield Pediatric Dentistry, kids in the Duncanville community benefit from a compassionate team of board-certified pediatric dentists who look after them and their oral health. We are happy to help your loved one build a good relationship with their teeth, letting them develop great dental habits they take into their adulthood. If it’s time for your child’s semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call our office at (972) 298-7560.