This month it is all about the love. From loving that special someone to loving your biological heart (it is American Heart Month.) February is also National Children’s Dental Health Month. If you have not had your child’s teeth checked in a while, now is the perfect time to schedule a comprehensive dental exam.
Showing Those Baby Teeth Some Love
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child’s first visit to the dentist occurs with the arrival of the first tooth or at least by the first birthday. There are several reasons why an early visit to the dentist is suggested.
One of the most common reasons toddlers have rotten teeth is due to baby bottle tooth decay. Some parents are unaware of the problems caused when a baby is allowed to go to sleep with a bottle of juice, milk or formula. While it may comfort the child and be sleep inducing, those little teeth are being bathed in a pool of sugars, which feed bacteria in the mouth. These germs produce acid that eats away at tooth enamel. Before long, your toddler’s teeth are riddled with cavities.
Visits to the dentist early in a child’s life provide dental care for your child. They also provide training for you on how to properly care for those new teeth. You learn how to maintain a healthy oral environment for your child.
Sealing Off Problems
As your child’s molars erupt, you will notice they have fissures and grooves on top. The crevices are often deep and provide a ripe setting for cavities to develop. Even with adequate brushing, which is generally difficult for most children in the beginning, cleaning these teeth enough to stop decay is challenging.
Your dentist can place sealants on these teeth to keep plaque and bacteria from attacking the enamel. The sealants are placed to provide a protective shield after a thorough professional cleaning. Proper brushing and flossing are still required to maintain optimal oral health.
This month show your love all the way around. Spend quality time with your special someone, make sure you are making heart-healthy decisions, and contact Gramercy Dental Center to schedule an appointment for your child’s dental checkup.
Posted on behalf of Gramercy Dental Center