Practising good oral hygiene early can have benefits for your child’s development and will continue to serve them their entire adult lives. Here are some pediatric dentistry facts that every parent should know.
1. Tooth decay is the most common childhood disease Tooth decay is the number one disease among children. Close to 24 per cent of kids between two and 11 will get at least one cavity, according to the Canadian Dental Association. The good news is, your dentist can cure a cavity with a simple filling. Tooth decay is also the most preventable childhood ailment, with proper oral hygiene. 2. Fluoride and sealants prevent tooth decay Using toothpaste containing fluoride is a scientifically proven method for preventing cavities. Fluoride helps strengthen your child’s protective tooth enamel, which makes their teeth more resistant to tooth decay. Sealants can also help. A sealant is a thin coating that fills in the grooves of your child’s back teeth, where it’s difficult for children to clean properly. Sealants have been shown to decrease cavities in children by up to 80 per cent. 3. Children should see a dentist by the age of one Baby teeth are temporary, but they’re just as important as adult teeth. Take your child to see a pediatric dentist before their first birthday. Visiting a dentist early ensures their teeth are growing properly and possible problems can be identified. Moreover, early visits help to prevent children from developing a fear of the dentist when they’re older. 4. Candy isn’t the only food that causes cavities You probably know that sugary foods such as candy and soda can lead to tooth decay. However, starchy foods high in carbohydrates, such as white bread, pasta, cereal, potatoes and corn, can also attract harmful bacteria to your child’s mouth. 5. Playing sports may cause dental injuries Participating in some sports is a common cause of dental injuries, and both chipped and broken teeth are some of the most frequently occurring. If you enroll your child in a sport such as hockey, soccer or basketball, make sure you equip them with a proper mouthguard to protect their teeth. A Flexible Family-Friendly Dentist In SE Calgary At Forest Lawn Dental Centre, Dr. Sandhu and his team provide a range of family dental services. We take particular pride in offering outstanding care to children and teaching them good oral habits early — habits they will carry into adulthood. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or book one online.