Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children in the United States. For example, children between 2 and 11 years old, have cavities in their baby or primary teeth. African American (45%) and Caucasian (39%) children have the highest percentages except for Hispanics (55%). The Centers for Disease Control, which conducted the latest survey in from 2004 to 2009, said that several factors contributed to this problem. Many of the population lack dental insurance and other issues involved not knowing proper preventative measures. Scheduling a visit to see a kids’ dentist in Kinnelon, NJ may be the best one of the best investments you ever make.
Here are some other mistakes parents commonly make when it comes to their child’s oral health:
1. Not taking care of baby teeth
- . The biggest myth most people believe is that there is no need to clean or care for baby teeth because they are going to fall out anyway. Prevention is essential to keep teeth healthy, even if they are temporary. It is recommended that dental care begins early, as soon as your child gets their first baby tooth.
2. Not treating cavities
- . Many parents think that cavities can be removed with brushing. Many cavities appear in the teeth as white spots, deposits of plaque or tartar, and can even cause small fractures or cavities. No toothpaste or medicine can cure cavities.
3. Delaying the first dental appointment
- . The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit by the age of 12 months. Regular dental visits help detect and monitor potential problems and through these, your dentist will teach you how to care for and properly clean the teeth of your child.
4. Using toothpaste with fluoride
- . Another one of the most common problems identified is the use of toothpaste with fluoride, a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel making it more resistant to decay. The American Dental Academy recommends waiting until the child is at least 2 years old before you start to wash your child’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste.
5. Not cleaning your child’s tongue
- . Just like an adult’s tongue, a child’s tongue holds bacteria that could cause tooth decay, gingivitis and bad breath.
Visiting Wayne’s Pediatric Dental Care in Kinnelon, NJ should be a little easier now that you have a few tips in tow. They should be able to hand out plenty more during your first visit.
