YOUR CHILD'S TEETH AND ORAL HEALTH

A common question or misunderstanding in dentistry; “When should I bring my child to the dentist.” There is not a specific age, but as a general rule, it is at about one year of age. Prior to one year of age if a parent is concerned about a discoloration on a new erupting tooth or any other unusual findings in the mouth , then a short “look see” would be appropriate to rule out any potential developmental problems. A “look see” is a short exam by the dentist to determine if there are any specific concerns or abnormalities.

In April of 2007 the CDC (the Center for Disease Control) released a Report that for the first time in their recorded history in the USA that the decay rate among children ages 2 to 5 years of age has increased. This is a wake up call for all of us. Therefore, new parents need to implement and maintain oral hygiene habits for their kids as soon as the first tooth erupts. Also, we need to re-look at public health issues in this troubling area of the increased incidence of tooth decay in America.

In a diverse society the message to new parents should be culturally sensitive, so all sectors of the population will have access to the information needed to maintain good health.

As soon as the teeth start to erupt into the mouth it is recommended that parents seek professional advice on how to maintain oral health in their child’s mouth.. The goal is at a minimum to remove all the plague from the teeth at least on a daily basis. Twice a day would be more desirable. This can be accomplished with an infant’s toothbrush, wash cloth or even a piece of gauze. Toothpaste is not necessary at this early age. The sooner your child adapts to you cleaning their teeth for them the better. Young children may resist at first, but this is important battle that each parent must win in order to prevent unwanted tooth decay.

Baby bottle tooth decay is also a common occurrence that can be avoided by taking a few simple steps at or before bedtime. Never put your baby to bed with a bottle containing milk, formula, fruit juices, sodas or any sugary liquids. Even though some of these liquids are needed for proper nourishment they can destroy or decay the teeth if left on the teeth for extended periods while sleeping. Brush the child’s teeth before bedtime and only offer water after the teeth had been cleaned at bedtime.

BY PATRICK J FOY, DDS