Children’s Oral Health: How Soon is Too Soon?

Many dental problems in children can be prevented if only the parents or guardians knew what to look for. The first visits to a pediatric dentist should be educating Mom and Dad on good dental hygiene while trying to discover the right office for you and your children. Probably best to start seeking out a professional once your child turns 1 year old. Most people don’t change their children’s dentist so the early selection process is very important. 

Some of the things to look for are:

• Is the staff responsive to your questions and concerns?
• Are they gentle and kind to other people’s children at various stages of development?
• Are they focused on your individual needs or very general in their answers?
• Is the environment both child and parent friendly?
• Is there a way to reach the dentist in case of emergencies?
• Can they share information on your child’s oral development effectively?
• How busy is the office and are they too busy to get an appointment within a reasonable period?

An early introduction to the dentist helps toddlers overcome any dental phobias  they may have. Your child’s oral health is serious business. A good pediatric dentist and educated guardians can spot dental challenges before they become dental nightmares. 

Did you know that: 

• Dental cavities are the single most common childhood disease.
• 40 – 50% of children in the US will be affected by tooth decay and other oral health problems even before they reach the age of 5
• 23 million children in this US do not have dental insurance

It is important you attempt to stay on the positive side of these statistics. Organizations like the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, companies like Colgate and even your localpediatric dentist in Bucks County  sponsor kids dental health education  for kindergarteners through 2nd grade levels.  Check your local community guide and ask your school nurses office for more information on these types of educational events and take a proactive role in your toddler’s oral health.

Diet and Oral Health Among Children

You child’s diet has a direct impact on their dental hygiene and oral health. Sugars and starches found in cakes, cookies, candies, pretzels, potato chips, etc, are directly linked to early tooth decay. These are the items toddlers love most and it is difficult to deprive your child of these goodies, especially while attending birthday parties. Therefore teaching good oral hygiene at a young age is very important. Do your best to make brushing and flossing a fun activity and used positive reinforcement for these positive behaviors. 

Experts in kids dental health will all agree that educating parents of young toddlers (1-3 years old) on proper oral hygiene is the best form of cavity prevention money can buy.  Pediatric dentistry in Bucks County  schools is not the responsibility of the school nurse although many report that they see cavities in first graders for many of their students. A qualified list of Pediatric dentists in Levittown  or if you want a kids dentist in Pennington NJ  for example, can be found by via the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists website. Don’t wait until your child has visible signs of cavities before you start seeking dental services for your children , start teaching good oral hygiene while they are potty training.