Protecting Your Child's Smile

We’re continuing to celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month this February in today’s blog post. Last week we discussed how to develop good oral health habits with your little one, but this week we’re focusing on our soon-to-be parents.

According to the CDC, pregnant women who practice good oral health habits can help prevent their kiddos from having cavities. That’s especially important because pregnant women can be more susceptible to cavities and gum disease, which can lead to poor health outcomes in both the mother and the child.

The Numbers

  • It may come as a surprise to many that gingivitis can be found in nearly 60 - 75% of pregnant women. Changing hormones during pregnancy can even potentially aggravate gum swelling associated with gingivitis

  • 1 in 4 women of childbearing age have untreated cavities

  • Children are 3 times more likely to have cavities if their mother has high levels of untreated cavities

  • Cavities and poor dental habits can have consequences on a child’s academics, with children who have poor oral health nearly 3 times more likely to miss school because of dental pain

What You Can Do

As always, discuss with your doctor and dentist about how to best prepare your child for good oral health.

Here are just a few reminders from the CDC:

  • For babies, wiping their gums twice a day can help get rid of sugars and bacteria. Once you start to see teeth, parents can begin to brush twice a day with a soft, small-bristled toothbrush and plain water. Visit your child’s dentist by their first birthday, and talk to your doctor or dentist about fluoride varnish and the use of fluoride toothpaste.

  • For older children, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. and be sure to help your child brush until they develop good brushing skills on their own. If your child is under 6, watch them brush and be sure they are using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and spitting it out when done.

Like so many healthy habits, developing good oral health in your child begins with you. When you have questions or concerns, always reach out to your doctor or dentist to discuss the best options to protect your child’s teeth.

Babies, Newborns, Preschoolers, School Age, ToddlersMatt Whitman