Do you know that most children experience dental problems early in life because of the carelessness and ignorance of their parents? Parents usually think that they do not need to focus on their child’s teeth until their permanent ones start growing. This is a harmful myth that needs to be debunked in order to preserve children’s dental health. 

If you are a parent, do not hesitate to visit a family dentist in Monterey Park to learn more about your child’s health. It is never too late to educate yourself about how to take care of your child. It can be difficult for a first-time parent to manage everything. Moreover, there is too much misinformation online that can lead you astray. Always trust a professional.

Myths about children’s dental care that parents need to know. 

Baby teeth do not matter since they fall out anyway. 

This cannot be further from the truth. Teeth are important, regardless of whether they are permanent or temporary. Your baby’s temporary teeth allow them to chew and speak properly and play a role in their facial development as well. 

Temporary teeth also play a role in making space for permanent teeth. If they fall out before their natural time due to injury or decay, it impacts the permanent teeth as well. 

Last but not least, having a beautiful smile gives not only adults confidence but also children. 

A dental visit is not necessary until your child has a dental problem. 

Just like it is recommended for adults to visit their dentist regularly regardless of their dental health status, the same rule applies to children. Why wait for problems to strike when you can take measures to prevent them in the first place? 

First-time parents make the mistake of not taking their child to the dentist unless they need it. Other parents do so to save money. However, doing this potentially leaves various dental health concerns undetected. Later, you may have to spend more money on treatment than you would do on check-ups. 

Take your child along with you on that annual or semi-annual dental check-up. There is no harm in teaching your child that dental care is important. 

Cavities in babies are not that serious. 

The biggest reason parents of small children neglect their cavities is because they believe the teeth will fall out anyway, so it does not require external intervention. This can be risky for your child’s health. You should not wait for your child’s teeth to fall out as a way to cure their cavities. Cavities can lead to pain, swollen gums, infection, and problems in speaking and eating. 

Parents do not need to brush their kid’s teeth until they have a full set. 

You can start caring for your child’s teeth as soon as they are born, even when their teeth have not erupted yet. Take a soft, damp cloth and gently move it over their gums to clean the area. It is recommended to brush their teeth and teach them the same as soon as their first tooth erupts. 

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste recommended by your dentist for children. Take a minimal amount, no more than one grain of rice, and brush twice a day. 

Kids need to brush properly to get cleaner teeth. 

Many people have grown up with the idea that the harder you brush your teeth, the cleaner and whiter they become. Therefore, most parents apply force when cleaning their kid’s teeth. The possible outcome of this is bleeding gums and even a broken tooth. The technique of brushing teeth matters more than power. 

If your child is experiencing dental issues, visit a dentist today. Also, ensure that you schedule appointments with the dentist quarterly to ensure your health is intact!

Joyce Laroche