It’s not uncommon for parents to have questions or concerns about the proper care for their children. Parents simply want the best for their child and if they don’t know or are unsure, most dental professionals will welcome questions warmly. There are some questions that get asked over and over and pop up more often than others. If you have a few questions of your own or are just curious, here are some answers to the top questions parents ask about children’s teeth/mouth health.
When Should I Start Taking My Child to the Dentist?
Many people wait until the first teeth start to push through the gums. However, a child’s oral health starts before the teeth begin erupting. This doesn’t mean you’ll need to see a dentist however if you have questions or concerns, it’s ok to take your child in before the teeth begin peeking through. It’s suggested that a child’s first checkup should occur when the signs of teething begin. However, since all children are different, around the first birthday is also suggested, if teeth haven’t shown up yet.
What Can I Do to Protect My Child’s Teeth During Sporting Events?
The only answer to this question is a mouthguard. There’s truly no way to protect your child’s teeth if they’re involved in sports other than utilizing a mouthguard. These can be bought over the counter or a custom-fit mouthguard can be obtained at from a dental professional. This may take the child some getting used to however, it’s the most effective way to ensure a child’s teeth will be protected when involved with sports.
How Do I Know if My Child is Getting Enough Fluoride?
The best way to ensure your child is getting enough fluoride is to have your dentist test their drinking water. They will also evaluate the health of their teeth in order to determine if there is an adequate level of fluoride being consumed. If not, a dentist may suggest fluoride supplements or an adjustment in water/food intake.
How Do Dental Sealants Work?
The back chewing teeth have large, flatter surfaces with deep grooves and crevices. When chewing, food gets shoved down into these crooks and crannies and is about impossible to fully remove or cleanout. Sealants basically act as a long term block that keeps these foods and bacteria from getting down into the grooves, ultimately protecting a child’s teeth from decay, cavities, sensitivity, etc.
There are so many questions that are commonly asked by parents. These are only a handful that gives just a glimpse into the questions and concerns a parent might have. These questions may also get the gears turning for those parents who aren’t sure what to ask and where to start.
