All Smiles
People may think that babies are not born with any teeth. But actually their first set is already there waiting to grow in. As soon as the first tooth pops up parents need to start thinking about dental care.
We all complain about trips to the dentist, but for children dental care in the first years is incredibly important. Sure the first set of teeth will eventually fall out, but just because they are not permanent does not mean they are not important. Children need teeth to help them learn to speak and eat.
“They also hold a space for permanent teeth. When a child loses a tooth before its natural time, you run into problem with the permanent tooth not having space to erupt,” said Pediatric Dentist Dr. Jessica Meeske.
So, to help keep your child's teeth healthy, keep their diets low in sugar and start brushing as soon as the first tooth arrives, but, Meeske said some kids are not old enough to brush alone till they are 6 or 7 years old.
“For many parents a common mistake is turning kids loose with a toothbrush,” Meeske said.
And if parents are out and about with their kids and brushing is not an option there is a new option called Spiffies. It cannot replace brushing, but…
“If parents are in situation where they cannot brush this lets you wipe off teeth, just quick to take away milk and sugar on teeth,” Meeske said.
And using Spiffies and brushing together can help prevent cavities which can destroy young teeth. Another threat to baby teeth is baby bottle tooth decay.
“Many parents allow babies to sleep with a bottle with milk or juice,” Meeske said. “This can start the process of baby bottle tooth decay, devastating to breaking down teeth.”
Finally, get children used to trips to the dentist. Experts recommend their first visit around their first birthday.
“Prevention is the key,” Meeske said.
If you are interested in giving those teeth wipes a try you can find Spiffies at the Walgreens on Burlington in Hastings.