February is A NATIONAL CHILDREN’ DENTAL HEALTH MONTH
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and the American Dental Association is asking people to “Defeat Monster Mouth.”
For the last 76 years, the American Dental Association has recognized the unique importance of oral hygiene for children.
Unfortunately, for a lot of parents, getting kids to brush and floss their teeth is like pulling teeth. In ASH Dental Irvine, we want to protect our kids from having their teeth pulled at some point in their lives, we’ve got to show them the ins and outs of proper dental health.
This month-long national health observance brings together thousands of dedicated dental professionals, health care providers and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, their caregivers, teachers and many others. The ADA and dentists across the country also celebrate Give Kids A Smile Day on Feb. 6 by providing free oral health care to children.
As an Ash Dental Irvine Dentist for kids, we have learned how to treat the developing teeth of children. Our training and expertise allow us to provide the ultimate, all-inclusive care for infants and adolescents. For kids, Dr. Sami is also a great option to consider when you have a child or teen with special health needs. Our office has created an abbreviated list of guidelines that may help you and your childcare for developing teeth during each stage of growth.
Dental Care for Infant Teeth
As soon as your child’s first tooth erupts, you should start planning to schedule a visit to a dentist for kids. The first visit to our office should occur no later than the first birthday of your child. The first teeth to develop in children are vulnerable to decay because many parents don’t think it is necessary to brush every day or to visit Ash Dental Irvine Dentist this early. Contrary to popular belief, the first few teeth that come in should be cared for just as meticulously as permanent teeth. Baby teeth set the stage for the health of permanent teeth that will come in later.
When an infant develops a tooth, and even throughout teething, you should use a soft-bristled brush developed for infants to remove plaque and bacteria from teeth and gums. Brushing should occur at least once a day at this stage and is best performed right before bedtime. Most infants enjoy how the rubber, soft bristles feel, and brushing faithfully from an early age can help set the stage for healthy brushing habits as they grow up.
The Effects of Thumb sucking Habits on Baby Teeth
If your child engages in thumb or pacifier sucking, it should not be a cause for concern unless it occurs for three years or longer. Around age three, this habit will generally become less common. If your child continues to thumb-suck or request a pacifier around age three, you may need to encourage your child to quit these habits or speak to someone in our dentist for kids’ office about a mouth appliance that can help deter these habits.
If lingering habits of thumb sucking occur, it can hinder proper mouth and teeth growth and lead to misalignment of the teeth. Orthodontic treatment later can correct these problems in most cases, but if developmental problems can be avoided, it is important to try your best to help.
Taking Your Child to an Irvine Dentist for Kids
Bringing your child into our office for a check-up should occur at least every six months. Regular check-ups will help prevent cavities and infections. Your children will look forward to the fun, welcoming atmosphere we provide, and they will always feel secure during appointments.
This is a brief overview of important considerations for you and your child’s dental care habits. Visiting a dentist for kids will help your children learn how to care for their teeth and gums in the best ways possible, leading to an overall healthier lifestyle and attractive smile.