Children's Oral Health
Infants and Babies
Did you know that babies are not really born toothless? The 20 primary ("baby") teeth that will erupt in the next two and one-half years are already present at birth in the baby's jawbone. And once those teeth begin appearing, it's very important to keep them clean and healthy. That means that parents need to understand their child's dental needs and start – from day one – to ensure that the child will have a healthy smile to last a lifetime.
As we learn more about how to keep children's teeth healthy, we may have to change what we've done for decades! For instance, it's very important not to put a child down for a nap or at night with sweetened liquid in the bottle – it can cause very destructive tooth decay! And as soon as your baby gets his or her first tooth, it's time for a visit to the dentist to get things off to a good start.
For the latest information on how to best take care of your baby's teeth, please check out these web sites for specific information:
- Baby bottle tooth decay
- Baby teeth
- Child’s first visit to the dentist
- Fluoride varnish, other fluorides
- Teething
- Thumb sucking
- Tooth eruption charts
- Insure Kids Now: Oral Health Coverage Plans
Children and Teens
As children grow up, there's a lot we can do to make sure they have the best oral health possible. Did you know that tooth decay is a chronic disease...and more United States children are affected by it than by asthma? But it's very possible today to grow up decay-free! The use of fluoride and sealants, along with thorough tooth brushing and flossing and regular dental check-ups can help ensure healthy teeth for a lifetime.
Having a nice smile helps us feel good about ourselves and about the way others see us, and teens are especially concerned about how they look. Check out these web sites below for more information:
Minnestoa Parents Know website
Minnesota Parents Know is a resource filled with up-to-date research on child health and development, parenting information and more. The website is hosted by the Minnesota Department of Education and offers a Smart Searching function, with sites recommended and evaluated by Tufts University. Search for dental and medical topics and find clear, informative materials from trusted resources on children from birth thru grade 12.
2011 Pediatric Dental News
Learning good dental habits during childhood can result in a lifetime of healthy teeth. From infancy, there are actions you can take to promote good oral hygiene. The MDA and WCCO have partnered on a new 2011 pediatric dental health series to provide you with helpful information - and be sure to check back, as more topics will be added every week during the month of January!