Each February, the American Dental Association recognizes the importance of establishing good oral health habits early during National Children’s Dental Health Month.
Dr. Vagnozzi-Bucci and the staff of Family and Spa Dentistry in Pennington, NJ would like to take the opportunity to promote awareness about the benefits of maintaining good dental health in children. As a family dentist, we offer the children’s dental services necessary to keep a growing smile healthy. This year’s theme is “Sugar Wars.”
Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases in children and children miss 51 million hours of school every year because of oral health issues. Oral health issues and tooth decay are almost entirely preventable in young patients through regular routine dental care.
Tips For Your Child’s Dental Health
A child should see a dentist no later than their third birthday, when all primary teeth have erupted- even earlier is fine too. Until a child can brush on his/her own, a parent or caregiver should brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Most children stop sucking their thumb or a pacifier by age 4. If this habit continues after permanent teeth come in, it can cause problems with tooth alignment and the bite.
Putting a child to bed with a baby bottle or sippy cup can cause tooth decay. Milk, formula, juices, and other sweet drinks will sit in the mouth all night and allow bacteria to harm the teeth and gums. Children should try to avoid sugary drinks and foods as much as possible. A healthy diet can also have a wide range of benefits, including a healthy smile. Fruits and vegetables are better for the teeth than candy and cookies!
In addition to keeping the teeth and mouth healthy, these early dental visits lay the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health. During your first visit, your dentist at Family & Spa Dentistry will take the time to demonstrate proper tooth brushing and flossing, make healthy diet recommendations, and discuss individualized cavity prevention.
Contact us today to schedule a checkup for your child to begin their healthy oral habits.
