Why Babies Need Dentists

One arm of kids dentistry that is often overlooked can be found in the drooly, adorable, little babies that are just beginning to get teeth. While dentists used to deal mostly with patients that were over the age of two, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children be seen around the time they get their first tooth or by their first birthday at the latest. This new data is in an effort to encourage proper dental hygiene for young children, as well as treating any dental issues early on.

Dental issues in young children can pop up due to very innocent acts on the part of their parents and siblings. These actions include, but are not limited to, the following.

Sharing Utensils 

It is a perfectly natural reaction to share utensils with your children. You may be eating something and they start to beg for a small taste. Harmless, right? Unfortunately, by sharing utensils with your children you are introducing your saliva with potential bacteria into their mouths. This bacteria can form cavities and infections in your child's mouth even before they have all of their teeth. Another common cause of bacteria sharing is when your child sucks on toys or even their pacifier after some other child has been slobbering on it. Take special care to protect your child's mouth. 

Fruit Juices

While it is commonly known that fruit juices should not be given to children younger than a year of age, some parents seem to make up for that year by giving their children extra fruit juice between the ages of one and three. These sugary drinks can cause dental rot and cavities at an early age, which could end up with your children needing crowns or even extractions. By replacing fruit juices with water, you are helping your child to develop better oral health habits.

Dental Neglect

While most parents do not have bad intentions, some just do not even think about washing their child's mouth out or brushing their teeth before they can do it themselves. The truth is that even babies need their gums washed often in order to avoid the build-up of bacteria. Teaching children to wash and clean their mouths at a very young age can help them to get into the habit, which will help them as they grow.

In conclusion, it is really never too early to teach and encourage your children to have good dental health.

For more information, contact a dentist who deals with kids' dentistry.

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