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According to
the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial
Research, tooth decay, or dental caries, remains the
single most common chronic childhood disease in the
United States. By educating children about the
importance of healthy foods and encouraging them to
brush their teeth regularly, parents can help
drastically reduce their children's chances of
developing oral health problems.
"The sooner
parents begin to promote good oral health, the better,"
said Dr. Scott Navarro, Delta Dental's dental director.
"It is recommended that a child's first dental checkup
is scheduled when their teeth begin to come through the
gums or no later than their first birthday, and every
six months thereafter. Also, promoting a low-sugar diet
at an early age by encouraging children to prefer the
natural taste of unprocessed, unsweetened foods could
really make a difference in a child's oral health as he
or she grows up."
Tooth brushing
should be approached as a fun family activity that
occurs after breakfast and before bedtime. When
brushing, it is best to hold the toothbrush against the
gumline at an angle with a light grasp. Plaque is soft
and is better removed by thorough but light brushing
instead of vigorous scrubbing, which can cause unwanted
wear on teeth. Children's teeth and gums can be
sensitive too; a gentle touch will make them more
comfortable.
"Saliva
production slows down during the sleep cycle, and your
mouth can't wash away as much plaque. So it's important
to make teeth as plaque-free as possible before going to
bed," continued Dr. Navarro.
Parents can
also help to protect their child's teeth by using
fluoridated toothpaste and talking to the dentist about
dental sealants and professional fluoride treatments,
which have been proven to be very effective in
protecting children's teeth against cavities and tooth
decay. Also, children should always wear a helmet when
bicycling and use protective headgear and mouth guards
in other sports activities to prevent oral injuries. |
