As a parent, your child is the center of your world. You do everything for them from giving them good food to making sure their teeth are taken care of. However, it’s getting harder to distinguish fact from fiction as more parents turn to the internet to answer their questions. Many myths about caring for your child’s dental hygiene have sprung up as a result.
Use this blog to cut through the noise and get real dentist-approved responses to these common kid-centric dental health myths.
1. There’s No Reason to Brush Baby Teeth
Contrary to the myth that baby teeth are expendable, they play an important part in a child’s developing chompers. Brushing baby teeth helps establish good oral hygiene habits, prevents decay, and sets them up for a healthy adult smile.
2. Kids Shouldn’t Chew Gum
While gum that’s full of sugar isn’t great for teeth, sugar-free options can actually benefit oral health. The act of chewing stimulates saliva production, aiding in the prevention of cavities, and supporting the development of strong teeth. You also don’t have to worry about gum staying in their stomachs for years if they swallow it, that’s a myth too.
3. Cavities in Baby Teeth Don’t Matter
Cavities in baby teeth can actually have lasting consequences for adult teeth down the road. Bacterial infection or losing a tooth before the adult version is ready to come in can cause spacing issues or gum disease. It’s essential to treat cavities before they start.
4. Fruit Juice Doesn’t Hurt Children’s Teeth
Despite its healthier appearance, most fruit juice can be full of high fructose corn syrup and acid, promoting to tooth decay. Limiting juice intake and encouraging water consumption is the best practice for healthy smiles.
5. Kids Should Brush Their Own Teeth
While you may mean well in letting your child brush their teeth, they’re most likely not doing a great job. Supervised brushing is necessary until a child develops the motor skills, knowledge, and discipline to brush effectively. Children often lack the dexterity or attention span for thorough cleaning which can lead to cavities even when your child is genuinely brushing every night.
Dispelling these myths is important for promoting the best possible dental hygiene for children. By talking through these misconceptions, parents can make informed decisions, setting up their children for success in dental hygiene in the future. If you need more guidance, reach out to their dentist. They’ll have all the answers and expert advice you need.
About the Practice
Dr. Brandon D. Rensch and Dr. Christine DiBlasi Laster are your passionate dental professionals at Connection Dentistry. Together, they strive to ensure that their patients of all ages are treated quickly, carefully, and with compassion. They use the latest dental technology and techniques to fulfill customized and affordable treatment plans. Call (919) 787-0355 to schedule an appointment, or visit the website to see other services they provide.