Children’s dental health is a topic filled with myths and misunderstandings that can lead to poor oral care practices. Promoting healthy teeth and gums is not only essential for your child’s oral health but also plays a vital role in supporting their overall well-being.
Learn about some of the most common misconceptions surrounding children’s dental health and discover the facts to help you make informed decisions.
Common misconceptions about children’s dental health
Myth 1: Baby teeth don’t matter because they fall out anyway.
Fact: Baby teeth play a crucial role in a child’s development. They help children chew, speak, and smile properly. Additionally, they hold space for permanent teeth. Losing baby teeth too early due to decay or other issues can lead to alignment problems with adult teeth later.
Proper care, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, is essential for your children’s dental health at all ages.
Myth 2: Cavities in baby teeth don’t need to be treated.
Fact: Untreated cavities in baby teeth can lead to pain, infections, and difficulty eating or speaking.
Remember, treating cavities promptly and maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent long-term issues and supports your children’s dental health.
Myth 3: Kids don’t need to see the dentist until they start school.
Fact: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth erupts. Early dental visits help identify potential issues, establish good oral health habits, and make children more comfortable with dental checkups.
Myth 4: Sugar is the main cause of cavities.
Fact: While sugar certainly contributes to cavities, it’s not the only factor. Cavities are caused by acid produced by bacteria in the mouth when they break down carbohydrates — this includes sugars as well as starchy foods like bread, crackers, and chips.
Brushing twice a day, flossing, and limiting sugary or starchy snacks are key in preventing cavities and protecting your children’s dental health.
Myth 5: Kids don’t need to floss.
Fact: Flossing is just as important for kids as it is for adults. Because flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach, it should happen as soon as two teeth have erupted next to each other.
Pro tip: Learn how to floss properly here.
Myth 6: Juice is a healthy alternative to soda for kids.
Fact: While juice may contain vitamins, it’s often high in natural and added sugars, which can contribute to tooth decay. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting juice and encouraging children to drink water and milk instead. If juice is offered, it’s best to serve it with meals and ensure children brush their teeth afterward.
Pro tip: If brushing isn’t an option, have your child swish with water to help remove any sugar left on the teeth.
Myth 7: It’s normal for kids to have bad breath.
Fact: Persistent bad breath in children can be a sign of poor oral hygiene, cavities, gum disease, or even other health issues such as sinus infections. If the bad breath continues despite proper brushing and flossing, it’s a good idea to consult a dentist to safeguard your children’s dental health.
Take care of your children’s dental health now
Understanding the facts about your children’s dental health is essential for keeping their smiles healthy and bright. By debunking these common myths, you can take better care of their teeth and gums, laying the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.
For any questions or concerns about your child’s dental care, don’t hesitate to reach out to a dental professional.