Were you aware that in the United States, cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases in children? Cavities, also known as tooth decay, can cause extreme pain and even infection if gone untreated. According to the CDC, children with poor oral health miss more school and have lower grades than children with good oral health. This Children’s Dental Health Month, we hope to highlight the importance of dental health for children.
Although cavities are a health concern and should be taken seriously, the good news is that parents can take measures to prevent their children from getting them. Creating a routine with your child from early on is crucial to preventing cavities. Fluoride has proven to be a great preventative as it is packed with powerful minerals to strengthen the enamel and often even reverse early decay. Brushing daily with fluoridated toothpaste will prevent your child from having to deal with cavities. Fluoride varnish- A dental treatment to prevent decay- has also proven to avoid one-third of cavities.
Parents: If you are not sure how to get started on a healthy oral hygiene routine with your little one, continue reading to learn some beneficial tips for babies and older children.
Be sure to always consult with your child’s pediatrician before following any of the recommendations listed above.
Your child should always be supervised while brushing their teeth until they have solid brushing skills. Be sure to always consult with your child’s pediatrician before following any of the recommendations listed above.
Pregnant women need to have good dental hygiene as being pregnant can make a woman prone to cavities and gum disease, negatively affecting a baby’s health. Pregnant women should:
Your child may be more prone to cavities if:
At the office of Dr. Alfonso J. Henriquez, we understand the importance of having good oral hygiene. We want to assure your child’s overall dental health is in pristine condition and welcome all of your impending questions. To schedule an appointment or contact our office, please call 561-275-7100.