As a parent or guardian, it’s normal to want to help your child build and maintain happy, healthy smile. However, there are plenty of rumors about pediatric dental care circulation among the public. If you make decisions about your kid’s dental health based on false information, you might accidentally harm their still-developing teeth and gums.
With that in mind, continue reading to learn more about 3 myths you might have heard about children’s dentistry and why you shouldn’t believe them!
Myth #1: Cavities in Baby Teeth Don’t Matter
Most kids start growing their first teeth between 6 and 12 months old, and many have a full set by the time they turn 3 years. That’s plenty of time for bacteria in their mouth to penetrate their enamel and cause cavities. You might not think it’s a big deal if you notice sections of damaged enamel in your child’s grin. After all, their primary teeth eventually fall out to make room for their adult ones, leading some parents to believe there’s no need to treat early tooth decay.
But the germs that cause cavities are contagious and can spread from one tooth to another or even affect your little one’s jawbone or connective tissues. This, in turn, can impact how their adult teeth develop and grow. Contacting your family dentist to treat cavities in baby teeth can therefore help prevent potential long-term consequences to their dental health.
Myth #2: A Dislodged Baby Tooth Isn’t an Emergency
Another common misunderstanding is that there’s no need to call your provider for an emergency visit if one of your child’s baby teeth is knocked out. It’s easy to assume that there’s no real risk because they’re supposed to fall out in time, but depending on the circumstances, there may be additional damage to your child’s mouth that you can’t see.
For example, if they fell on the playground or took a blow to the face during a softball game, they might have chipped or cracked neighboring teeth or damaged their jawbone, too. An emergency appointment allows their dentist to assess their condition and take X-rays or other images to determine the extent of the harm done and provide appropriate solutions.
Myth #3: Fluoride is Unsafe for Children
Many family dentists offer topical fluoride treatments to help you and your loved ones build strong, healthy enamel. However, some people have been led to believe that this natural ingredient is harmful to their child’s health.
While it’s true that overexposure can potentially weaken enamel and bone structure, you should know that your oral healthcare provider uses products that contain small, safe dosages of this ingredient. It’s used to strengthen their enamel, which helps avoid cavities, injuries, and the need for emergency visits.
If you have additional questions about your child’s dental condition or at-home hygiene habits, you can learn more by contacting your family dentist for an appointment!
Meet the Author
Dr. Michael Rose is a second generation dentist who is passionate about helping people of all ages improve their lives by enhancing their smiles. He earned his dental degree from the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, and has since completed continuing educational courses with the Misch Implant Institute. Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services, including preventive services, to meet your family’s unique needs under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (702) 459-8998.