In the Know for You to Know

These days there’s a lot of information out there for parents. Most of the time what appears true simply isn’t true. Yet there are myths that continue to be spread.

We want you to be knowledgeable and informed, so today we’re breaking down the most common children’s dentistry myths.

Myth #1 Baby Teeth Aren’t Important, They Fall Out

Truth: Baby teeth are the foundation for a life time of good oral health. When your child’s tooth foundation is strong and healthy, they grow up with strong and healthy adult teeth.

The 2nd truth about why it’s important to take care of baby teeth is because if baby teeth aren’t well cared for, tooth decay (aka cavities) may develop. This decay can cause pain and infection that spreads into the gums and cause damage to developing adult teeth.

The 3rd truth is that healthy baby teeth help with proper speech development, chewing, and maintaining space for the adult teeth to come in correctly.

Myth #2 Cavities Are Only Caused By Sugar

Truth: Sugar does play a large role in cavities, but there is also another cause for you to be aware of. Starches in chips, crackers and cookies lower the pH of saliva which makes the saliva more acidic. A lower pH saliva causes cavities to form more quickly and more often.

Myth #3 Children Can Brush Their Own Teeth

Truth: Yes, you should have your child brush their own teeth, BUT ONLY IF they can do it effectively. Most children can’t brush their own teeth because they are too young to have the dexterity to know how to adapt the toothbrush around their mouth. This takes time for a child to develop. You can start your nightly brushing routine when your child is young by spending time with your toddler showing him/her how to brush all sides of their teeth and gums effectively.

The 2nd truth is that teaching correct and proper brushing habits early is essential for good life long oral hygiene habits.

Myth #4 Fruit Juice Is Healthy

Truth: Do you know that fruit juice can have as much sugar or more sugar than a soda? Yes, it’s true. This high amount of sugar cancels out all the benefits of the small amount of vitamins in the juice.

The 2nd truth is that all this sugar in the mouth causes the saliva to become acidic. The more times a child drinks a sugary beverage the more acidic their saliva becomes. The lower pH breaks down tooth enamel, which leads to cavities developing.

Myth #5 Children Should Never Chew Gum

Truth: Gum can be good for children’s teeth, as long as it’s sugar-free. This is because sugar-free gum helps neutralize the pH of saliva.

A 2nd truth is that the action of chewing increases the amount of saliva in the mouth. Both of these aspects can help keep cavities away.

What To Remember

Children’s dental health is a vital aspect of their over all health and well-being.

Share The Information, Now that you’ve read the truth about the most common children’s tooth truths you can spread the word to everyone you know. This way everyone will understand how to take better care of their child’s dental health.

What children’s tooth myths have you heard? Do you have any tooth truths you’d like to share? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email to kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us or chat with us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!