False! Clarifying Misconceptions about Children’s Dentistry

Although the internet and social media have connected the world and allowed for easier communication, these sources have created misinformation. Unfortunately, many of the myths spread online can be health related and negatively influence parents as they try to raise their children. In fact, you may have seen these false claims about children’s dentistry and maybe believed them, but learning the truth from experts can help you make better decisions and establish lifelong healthy habits for your growing child.

False: Baby Teeth Can’t Get Cavities.

True: Your Child’s Teeth Need Care Starting When They Erupt.

Seeing your baby’s teeth emerge one by one is a rite of passage as a parent, but with this new stage of their development comes new responsibility. Even if your baby doesn’t have much other than milk or formula, these substances do contain a little sugar, which can feed cavity-causing bacteria. As soon as you see that first poke of white in their gums, start a routine of gently brushing every day.

Also, don’t leave a bottle of milk, formula, or juice in the crib with your baby because its lingering in their mouth can promote bacterial growth. A cavity resulting from this has its own name: baby bottle tooth decay.

False: Baby Teeth Don’t Really Matter.

True: Baby Teeth Serve Essential Purposes and Are Necessary.

Just because something is temporary, it doesn’t mean it’s not important. Your child’s baby teeth may eventually be replaced with permanent ones, but they still deserve care! Many little ones are picky eaters despite their parents’ efforts, but how is your child supposed to try various foods if their teeth aren’t strong?

Beyond the short term, baby teeth play a role in how your child’s future smile turns out. As placeholders, primary teeth provide a spot for the permanent replacements to grow into. If tiny dentition is lost too soon and your pediatric dentist doesn’t place space maintainers, the alignment of the permanent teeth still developing can get off track, creating the need for more orthodontic correction later in your child’s life.

False: Visits to the Dentist Don’t Have to Start Until Age 3.

True: Dental Appointments Should Start by the Time Your Baby Turns 1 Year Old.

Unfortunately, dental issues can form quickly, even for the young. That’s why the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, along with the American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatrics, recommends starting a child’s six-month dental visits within six months after their first tooth arrives.

Did you know that a baby can require the attention of a pediatric dentist before their teeth arrive? In fact, some babies are born with an issue called a lip or tongue tie, which can hinder their ability to breastfeed, eat, and speak later on. A simple, fast, and relatively pain-free procedure with a pediatric dentist can provide more function to a newborn, helping them thrive early on.

False: Fluoride Is Dangerous for Kids.

True: Fluoride Is Generally Safe and Effective at Preventing Cavities for Kids and Adults.

Some groups claim that fluoride is unhelpful and harmful, especially for children; however, in communities where fluoridated water is publicly provided, the prevalence of cavities has declined dramatically. On the other hand, studies show that consuming too much fluoride before the age of 8 can lead to fluorosis, discoloration of a child’s tooth enamel. However, if your child spits out and doesn’t swallow fluoridated toothpaste, they should reap the benefits without minimal risk.

Now that you know that truth behind some misconceptions, you can learn to question information you learn from potentially untrustworthy sites online. Turn to reliable sources like scientific studies and your trained pediatric dentist for accurate information about your child’s dental care.

About the Practice

The team at Coastal Pediatric Dentistry loves to guide young patients and their families through the start of their oral health journey. Dr. James Forester and Dr. Natalie Vander Kam are both board-certified pediatric dentists, which means they are specifically trained and experienced in working with kids and focused on child-related issues. They continue to take ongoing training to stay informed about the latest research and developments in the field and deliver the best care possible. To schedule an appointment at our San Luis Obispo office, call 805-592-2020 or visit our Contact Us page here.