February marks National Children’s Dental Health Month, an important time to raise awareness about good oral hygiene practices for children. This initiative focuses on educating both parents and children about the importance of dental health, promoting healthy habits, and preventing common issues like cavities.
Cavities are the most prevalent chronic disease in the United States, affecting children of all ages. Whether it’s cavities in baby teeth or adult teeth, the risks remain the same: if untreated, cavities can lead to more serious complications, including infections that may cause severe pain, swelling, and even systemic issues like heart problems. Dr. Phyllis Pendergrast, a dentist in Fairbanks, explains that untreated cavities can cause infections that could potentially affect a child’s overall health, underscoring the importance of early care.
One way to prevent cavities is by using fluoride, which the CDC highlights as a key factor in keeping children’s teeth healthy. Fluoride varnish can prevent about a third of cavities, which is especially helpful in early childhood. Dr. Hannah Summerfelt, a dentist also based in Fairbanks, advises parents that children start getting their first adult teeth around age six, which is an important time to establish good oral hygiene habits. Developing these skills early can help ensure healthier teeth as they grow older.
To foster healthy habits, the CDC recommends that children brush their teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. For younger kids, parents should assist with brushing by using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste until the child is able to manage brushing on their own. The process can often be challenging, as some kids resist brushing their teeth. However, Drs. Pendergrast and Summerfelt emphasize making the experience fun and positive. For example, they encourage parents to play “dentist” by letting the child lie down and pretending to examine and clean their teeth, making it an interactive and enjoyable experience rather than a chore.
Babies’ oral hygiene is equally important. Before their first teeth appear, the CDC advises wiping a baby’s gums twice a day with a soft cloth—once after the morning feeding and again before bedtime. Once the baby’s first tooth emerges, parents can switch to a small, soft toothbrush with plain water. Dr. Summerfelt suggests bringing the child to the dentist before their first birthday, even if their teeth haven’t fully come in yet, to start building positive associations with dental care.
By taking these small, consistent steps, children can develop lifelong healthy habits and avoid the more serious consequences of untreated dental issues. National Children’s Dental Health Month is a great reminder for parents to prioritize oral hygiene and make dental care a fun and positive experience for their children.
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