The internet—it’s a double-edged sword, especially when it comes to advice. You can find valuable information from experts around the world, but you can also easily run into misinformation. With so much out there, it can be difficult to discern myth from fact. When it comes to your child’s smile, you can’t believe prevalent myths about children’s dentistry. Here are some of the most common ones and the truth behind them.
Myth #1: Baby Teeth Don’t Need to Be Brushed
Some parents believe that baby teeth are not worth caring for—after all, they’re going to come out to make way for permanent teeth anyway! However, if your child hasn’t developed the habit of brushing and flossing early on in life, they are unlikely to do it when their permanent teeth grow in. Your child will only have one set of adult teeth, intended to last their lifetime, so they need to learn how to take care of their teeth as young as possible.
Related to this myth is the misguided idea that kids can brush their teeth completely on their own. In the beginning, your child may lack the coordination and fine motor skills to brush their teeth adequately. You can certainly allow them to have a turn brushing their own teeth, but you should follow it up with your turn to make sure every tooth is properly cleaned.
Myth #2: Cavities in Baby Teeth Are Not a Big Deal
Tooth decay can be serious regardless of the type of tooth it affects. Not only can a cavity in a baby tooth be painful—because the enamel is much thinner—but a cavity that goes untreated can also spread and damage the permanent tooth still developing beneath the gums. It’s another reason why taking care of baby teeth is essential!
Myth #3: Sugar and Candy Are the Only Causes of Cavities
The bacteria in your child’s mouth (and yours as well) thrive on sugar. They feed on sugar and produce the eroding acids that eat away at the enamel. As a result, it’s easy to point blame at candy and processed sugar.
However, it isn’t the only culprit you have to worry about. Foods high in carbohydrates, like crackers and bread, break down similarly to sugar, having a comparable effect on teeth. Acidic foods and drinks also wear down enamel, making it easier for cavities to develop. Even “healthy” foods like dried fruit and milk can have higher concentrations of sugar than you may initially think!
Ultimately, the best source to turn to for true information about this important topic is your pediatric dentist. They can tell you what you need to know in order to protect your child’s teeth and gums from harm. By understanding the truth, you can keep your favorite smile shining brightly!
About the Practice
As board-certified pediatric dentists and fathers, Dr. Sage and Dr. Justin have a special talent for helping young children learn about dental health. They are both board-certified pediatric dentists, which means they’ve undergone years of advanced training specifically for children’s issues. If you would like advice for taking care of your child’s smile, you can schedule an appointment at Sprout Dentistry for Kids of Allen online at our Contact Us page.