Children are at a great deal of risk from tooth decay. It is estimated that as many as 42% of children between the ages of 2 to 11 develop a cavity in their primary teeth. Nearly 28% of children ages 2 to 5 develop at least one cavity.
With statistics like these, it’s important for parents to consider the habits of their children and how to prevent tooth decay. City Dental Kids & Braces has put together a list of some of the top bad habits that lead to tooth decay in children so that you can better protect the oral health of your children.
Water is the Best Choice For Bedtime Drinks
If your toddler needs a drink to go to bed with in a sippy cup, water is the best choice. “Bottle mouth” is very likely to damage teeth over time when milk and especially sugary juices are chosen for the nighttime drink.
Ensure your children properly transition from bottle to sippy cup as well. Sticking with the bottle too long can be damaging to the teeth. Additionally, ensure your toddlers don’t rely on the sippy cup for bed forever as they develop from toddlers to older children.
Brushing and Flossing is Key
Twice daily brushing and once daily flossing is equally important for your children as it is for adults. This should go without saying, but kids can be a handful. It’s not surprising some parents don’t enforce proper dental habits as much as they should.
Make sure your child maintains at least the minimums, but keep in mind that going a little further in regards to their developing teeth isn’t a bad idea at all. Adding an extra brushing or flossing routine during the day if your child has gorged on snacks or sweets is always a good idea.
Make sure to use children’s toothpaste and ensure your children aren’t swallowing the toothpaste. In addition, always ensure your children spend enough time brushing their teeth. 1-2 minutes should be enough in most situations, and always twice a day! Once in the morning and once at night.
Visit a Specialized Children’s Dentist Regularly
A dentist specialized in children’s dentistry will be the best choice in taking care of your children’s teeth. Don’t neglect to take them to the dentist just as frequently as you take yourself! Keep in mind that according to The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), a child should go to the dentist by age 1 or within six months after the first tooth erupts. Primary teeth typically begin growing in around 6 months of age.
If you stick to the 6 month routine of taking your children to visit the dentist and keep up on their oral habits, you should be able to have happy, healthy children who grow into adults with good dental habits.
If you’re looking for a good choice in children’s dentistry, City Dental Kids & Braces is the right choice for you and your family!
City Dental Kids & Braces is Here For YOU!
A professional pediatric dentist can really help in instilling good habits in your children. City Dental Kids & Braces is the perfect choice for you and your kids. Contact us today!
City Dental Kids & Braces was established by Dr. Sam Shahoveisi to bring a comfortable and fun experience visiting the dentist to children. City Dental Kids & Braces is the best choice for any and all of your pediatric dental concerns. The professionalism of their doctors will ensure your child has the best possible care before, during, and after their dental procedure.
For questions, or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at (626) 962-1700.
