Babies have beautiful smiles, and they will need to receive excellent oral care to stay that way. You can expect your child to go through several stages as their teeth and gums develop, and there are a few important steps to take during this process to ensure that their mouth remains healthy and grows properly. Here are a few things to keep in mind about how children’s mouths develop and how you can take excellent care of them.
Tooth Decay Is One of the Most Common Ailments Among American Children
Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic illnesses in the world, and it is frequently found in children in the United States. The American diet is infamous for being heavy with sugars and acids that feed harmful oral bacteria and erode the smile’s protective layer of enamel. Since small children are still learning proper oral hygiene habits, they can be especially vulnerable to this onslaught on their oral health.
It is reported that one in five American children between five and eleven and one in seven between twelve and nineteen have at least one untreated decayed tooth. Keeping your child’s diet appropriately low in sugar and acids while teaching them proper oral hygiene will help them protect their teeth from decay for life.
A Kid Should See Their Dentist Early and Often
The American Dental Association recommends that every child be scheduled for their first dental appointment when their first tooth begins to erupt or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Afterward, they should see their dentist every six months or so. These visits will allow a qualified oral health professional to monitor the emergence of the child’s primary teeth while preventing and addressing oral infections that could lead to severe consequences later in life.
Sports Injuries Are a Common Cause of Dental Damage in Children
Sports are a great way for kids to get exercise, practice teamwork, and learn to win and lose gracefully, but they can put your child’s smile at risk without the proper precautions. Luckily, your dentist can fit your child with a customized athletic mouthguard that will cushion their teeth against stray balls, wayward elbows, sudden falls, and the other oral health hazards faced by young athletes.
Your child’s teeth play crucial roles in their nutritional habits and how they communicate. Consulting with your pediatric dentist will help you prepare them to enjoy a lifetime of excellent oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Bryce Cushing earned his dental degree at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry and completed a pediatric residency at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. He has practiced for fifteen years and is a proud member of the American Dental Association and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. His office in Papillion offers pediatric general, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as customized mouthguards. To schedule your child’s next checkup, contact the office online or dial (402) 773-7873.