Did you know that a staggering 80% of children in India experience oral health issues? There needs to be more clarity between what parents believe about their children’s dental health and the reality. For instance, 70% of kids aren’t brushing their teeth twice daily, and 60% haven’t visited a dentist in the past year.
The rise in consumption of sticky fast foods has exacerbated dental problems among children, leading many to endure painful dental procedures at a young age. It’s essential to debunk common misconceptions about children’s dental care. Emphasizing a preventive approach is key to safeguarding children’s teeth and reducing escalating dental costs.
Top 7 Myths About Children’s Dental Care:
Myth 1: Baby teeth can be neglected since they will eventually be replaced by permanent ones.
However, it’s important to note that milk teeth typically remain in a child’s mouth until the age of 13–14 years and begin to naturally fall out around 7–8 years of age.
Therefore, maintaining proper oral hygiene for these primary teeth is essential for ensuring a healthy permanent dentition. The period up to the age of 13–14 represents an optimal window for fostering a sound dental foundation.
One primary factor to consider is the use of a milk bottle, which can lead to a condition known as Nursing Bottle Caries. This condition can have a detrimental impact on a child’s overall dental health due to the continuous presence of milk residue on their teeth.
Furthermore, it can affect a child’s facial appearance and their ability to chew properly.
To prevent this, parents should avoid using milk bottles at night, and it’s crucial for children to brush their teeth before bedtime. These practices not only help prevent cavities but also ensure that children receive proper nutrition.
Myth 2: More fluoride means no caries.
Fluoride is known to strengthen teeth and reverse tooth decay by remineralizing enamel. When used from an early age, it also provides long-term benefits for permanent teeth.
However, how much fluoride is beneficial?
Excessive fluoride can lead to fluorosis in children, causing discoloration, pitting, and staining of permanent teeth.
Dentists recommend using fluoride toothpaste from the eruption of the first tooth until the age of six, in an amount no larger than a grain of rice. To determine if additional fluoride application is necessary, consult your dentist.
Myth 3: A dental visit is only needed when children develop oral problems.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises that children should visit a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing.
The dental checkups are important for early detection of cavities and other oral problems, timely treatment and guidance on maintaining proper oral hygiene since young age. Pre-school dental checkup plays a vital role in inculcating oral care routine in children and shield them from painful dental infections later on.
When should a child first visit the dentist? To ensure optimal dental care, children should see the dentist at ages 1 and 4. By age 7, they should visit both the dentist and an orthodontist.
Myth 4: Kids can brush their own teeth.
Kids under 6 should do brushing under parental supervision. Kids often miss areas prone to decay because they haven’t yet developed the necessary manual dexterity. Parents can guide them in proper brushing techniques, flossing, and other aspects of oral care.
Myth 5: Brush vigorously for cleaner teeth
Brushing too hard can erode the outer layer of teeth, the enamel, which is crucial for protection. This erosion can lead to tooth sensitivity and an increased risk of decay. Additionally, aggressive brushing can damage the gums, causing recession and further sensitivity.
The correct brushing technique involves using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and clean each tooth individually. Brush twice daily for two minutes and replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months.
Myth 6: Cavities are caused solely by Sugar
Cavities are often associated with sugar intake, but they’re not exclusively caused by it. Other factors such as poor oral hygiene, the buildup of plaque, consumption of acidic foods, presence of bacteria in the mouth, and frequent snacking also contribute to cavity formation.
It’s crucial to uphold proper oral hygiene habits like brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental check-ups to prevent cavities.
Routine dental visits can help identify early signs of decay and address them promptly, further emphasizing the importance of comprehensive oral care.
Myth 7: It’s impossible to get my child to quit sucking their fingers or thumb.
It is stressful for a parent as well as kids to stop habits like tongue thrusting, finger sucking. But they lead to malalignment of permanent teeth. Taking proactive measures ensures proper positioning of erupting tooth. Dentists can help your kids get rid of these habits with different methods.
During school dental check-ups, we identify such habits and guide parents and children to quit these habit.
How can we help?
A regular dental checkup plays a pivotal role in maintaining the oral health of children.
The Vigour360 school health program offers advanced dental checkups for children, providing comprehensive insights into their dental well-being. This proactive approach can help prevent the need for cumbersome and costly dental procedures in children.