Children’s dentists in Natick, Drs. Christina Papageorgiou and Medha Singh, advise parents that cavities threaten the oral health and systemic well-being of children. Despite modern dentistry and health education in school, about 40 percent of toddlers and school age children get at least one cavity says the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. What role does pediatric dentistry play in the lives of kids, and what can you expect from a trip to the dentist’s office?
Are Cavities Really Harmful?
The short answer is yes, tooth decay harms ours kids. The Centers for Disease Control state that Early Childhood Caries, is the most common–and preventable–chronic health issue among kids ages two to 11.
Cavities in kids cause dental pain and tooth loss. Loss of baby teeth harms speech, nutrition and how adult teeth develop and erupt. These problems compound as children get older, causing problems with learning and self-confidence. In other words, it pays to care for those baby teeth.
Unfortunately, kids love sugary treats, drinks and starchy foods. These dietary choices encourage growth of sticky plaque. Bacteria in plaque–Streptococcus mutans– secrete acids that erode tooth enamel.
Also, decay may begin as early as infancy. Putting a child to bed with a bottle allows milk or juice to pool at the gum line. This 10- to 12-hour exposure to sugars begins the decay process.
Advice from Papageorgiou Dental Associates
Cavity prevention should start early. When baby teeth erupt, parents should start the daily brushing routine with a pea-sized smear of toothpaste. As teeth mature, introduce daily flossing. Parents should floss their kids’ teeth until they have the dexterity to do it independently. Supervision of morning and nighttime hygiene continues until age 11 or 12.
Also, the children’s dentists see kids for their first check-ups by age one. While initial appointments to Papageorgiou Dental Associates are just get acquainted visits, by age three kids get full oral exams, digital X-rays as needed and gentle cleanings. The dentists inspect for gum disease, tooth decay, bite, alignment and tooth and jaw development.
As young teeth mature, the dentists usually recommend in-office fluoride treatments and plastic sealants. These services are easy, economical and effective protection against decay. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends children have orthodontic evaluation by age seven to ensure proper jaw and tooth alignment. Straighter smiles are less prone to decay and gum disease because they are easier to keep clean.
Finally, Mom and Dad must model good habits. That means:
- twice daily brushing and flossing
- a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, high fiber breads, dairy and low-fat meats
- no smoking
- Adequate hydration
Kids should drink water throughout the day–up to eight glasses. Tap water is a good source of free fluoride, and water cleanses teeth and gums of any food residues. Water encourages saliva production as well, along with its antibacterial properties.
Contact Us
Preventive dental care for kids keeps young smiles healthy for years. Please schedule your children’s six-month exams now. Contact Papageorgiou Dental Associates to speak with a friendly team member.