If you are a parent to a young child, then you have probably received a lot of advice about dental care. However, there are a lot of myths about childhood dental care. It is important to have the right information so that you will know how to properly care for your children’s teeth.
Myth: Baby Teeth are not Important
Fact: Your child will eventually lose all of his or her baby teeth. However, they are still important. Baby teeth can develop cavities just like adult teeth. If the decay is severe, then the tooth may need to be extracted. This can be a traumatic experience for a child, and they may be reluctant to go to the dentist in the future.
Myth: Fruit Juice is Good for Children’s Teeth
Fact: Fruit juice is a healthier choice than soda. However, it is not good for the teeth. In fact, one cup of fruit juice has about as much sugar as a soda. Milk and water are the only beverages that most dentists recommend for children.
Myth: My Child Does not Need to go to the Dentist Until They Start School
Fact: Children should see the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth coming in. Early dental visits can prevent problems from occurring.
Myth: Children Should Brush Their Teeth After Eating
Fact: There is an acid in the food that your child eats. This can soften the enamel. Brushing right after eating can actually damage the enamel. It is best to wait at least one hour.
Myth: Children can Brush Their own Teeth
Fact: Children often have trouble reaching all of the teeth in their mouth. Most children cannot properly brush their teeth until they reach the age of 7. Make sure that your children brush for at least two minutes and can reach all of their teeth before you let them brush unsupervised.
