Children's teeth require special care... Oral hygiene habits developed in early childhood will last a lifetime affecting more than just a healthy smile. Studies show that children with healthy mouths:

-chew more easily
-absorb more nutrients from the foods they eat
-learn to speak quicker and clearer
-have better general health
-and confidence in appearance.

Although baby teeth fall out, their spacing and alignment allow for normal development of jaw bones and muscles, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). Some baby teeth remain until age 12-14. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, the teeth beside may shift into the empty space causing the permanent new teeth to come in overcrowded or crooked.

AAPD recommendations include a visit to the dentist twice a year, even though a child may have never had a cavity. This is because dental cleanings remove debris that builds up on gums and teeth leading to decay, and supplement fluoride in enamel. A dental check-up is also a terrific opportunity for your child to take interest and responsibility in independent dental care and a terrific smile.

Pediatric dentists recommend a child be seen by their first birthday to establish a prevention plan early. The common concerns at this stage of development are tooth decay and gum disease. Babies' teeth are at risk when they fall asleep at the breast, with a bottle of juice or formula during naps or at night. It is recommended that weaning from the breast or bottle take place by 1 year of age.

At a first visit, you'll also learn how to brush and floss your child's teeth and ensure appropriate fluoride intake. Children receiving inadequate fluoride are at greater risk for dental carries. On the other hand, children can develop enamel fluorosis, from an excess of fluoride, causing tooth enamel defects appearing as permanent tiny white specks or streaks.

Fluoride Can Damage Teeth Permanently

How can your child get enamel fluorosis? By simply swallowing too much fluoride during critical years of tooth development. Keep in mind that fluoride is also found in drinking water, dietary nutrients, and vitamin supplements. Your pediatric dentist can assist you in determining the fluoride content in you child's diet. Another easy step is to give your child only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, and in children who don't yet know how to rinse, just use a moistened toothbrush.

Children's mouths grow and change rapidly and are more likely to get carries than adults. For these reasons, children usually have more dental x-rays than adults because these can show changes that are not otherwise apparent. However, unless there is a specific reason, x-rays are not routinely done on children, and only after a thorough dental exam to evaluate an injury, developing teeth, and in planning orthodontic treatments.

When a child does have dental x-rays taken, special care will minimize exposure to radiation. High-speed film and proper shielding with lead aprons, protect your child and ensure minimal radiation exposure by directing the beam to a specific target area.

What about sucking habits? Babies suck for security and comfort. This behavior is learned and practiced in the womb and is a way of learning. How does this affect your child's dental development? By age 4 most children stop sucking pacifiers, thumbs, or fingers; but some children have difficulty giving up the habit. In these children, the alignment of the front teeth can become a concern.

Your dentist can assist you in suggesting ways to help your child break the habit, as well as talk to your child. Often children are receptive to support and encouragement from someone other than a parent. However, most children give up sucking on their own without detrimental effects.

Children need a healthy and balanced diet for optimal development. This includes a combination of foods from the major food groups: fruits and vegetables; breads and cereals; milk and dairy products; meat, fish, and eggs. What a child eats affects proper tooth and gum development and is a major factor in tooth decay.

Many foods contain starch or sugar in one form or another, found in peanut butter, crackers, milk, pasta, and fruits - to name just a few. Although many provide essential nutrients, it's safer for teeth if these are eaten with a meal rather than in between as a snack. Sticky foods have greater potential for causing tooth decay because they stick to the teeth for long periods of time.

The Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends parents limit snacks times and choices to nutritious choices. You can further protect your child's teeth by avoiding putting your child to bed with milk, formula, or juice. This is important because residual liquid is perfect for bacteria to grow and develop acid that attacks teeth. Alternatives are a bottle with water or a pacifier.

What Can You Expect?

Pediatric dentists are primary care providers, recognized by the American Dental Association, and uniquely trained and experienced to provide the best cost-effective care for your child. It's important to find out ahead of time what your dental insurance plan covers before enrolling. The choice of a dental care provider should be ultimately yours.

When your child is ready for that first dental check-up, here are a few points to make it easier for both of you. A good pediatric practice will have trained professionals who know how to speak with your child appropriate for his/her level of development. Techniques such as telling a child the name of an instrument, showing what it does, and then applying it for treatment are very effective. Often a child who is fearful will be teamed up with a cooperative child.

Should you go in with your child? Young children want the security of the parent nearby, whereas older children do better when a parent is in the reception area, that way they get to feel grown-up and interact directly. It's key to remember that children pick up parents' anxiety; so it's important you are confident about the visit to be most effective with your child.

If at any time during a check-up, a child becomes anxious or uncooperative, assertive management is key to maintaining your child's safety. Often the dental exam will end at whatever point it becomes necessary, since it's important for this to be a positive experience for your child.

Resources:
American Society of Dentistry for Children 1 (312) 943-1244
An organization of specialists and general practitioners, founded in 1927, dedicated to promoting sound dental practices for children.

American Dental Association 1 (800) 947-4746
Develops and distributes educational materials on dental health.

Association for the Care of Children's Health 1 (800) 808-2224 ext. 327

Child Health Research Project
Implemented by 4 collaborating partners: World Health Organization Program for Child Health and Development; Harvard Institute for International Development; ICDDR, B: Center for Health and Population Research; and Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health.

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry 1 (312) 337-2169
Provides a listing of pediatric dentists in your area who are members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Did you enjoy this article? Rate It! | Tell a Friend