Good dental health in children is crucial for overall well-being. Healthy teeth enable proper chewing, speech development, and contribute to self-esteem. Prioritizing dental health through education, preventive care, and regular check-ups lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. The following topics are common discussion points of children’s dental health.

First dental visit

Children should visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts. Early visits help establish a dental home and allow the dental care team to monitor oral development and provide guidance on proper care. Regular dental visits every six months are essential for monitoring dental health and catching potential issues early.

Fluoride treatments

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps prevent tooth decay. Fluoride treatments can help strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. This in turn helps to significantly reduce the risk of cavities and promote stronger, healthier teeth. Dentists often recommend fluoride treatments for children and may also suggest fluoride toothpaste for at home use.

Dental sealants

Dental sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars (back teeth) to protect them from cavities. Sealants act as a barrier against food particles and bacteria. They are typically recommended for children once their permanent molars emerge, usually around age 6.

Visiting an orthodontist

Children should have their first evaluation with an orthodontist by age 7. At this age, an orthodontist can identify potential issues with tooth alignment and bite.

Early intervention may prevent more severe problems later and can help guide the growth of the jaw.

Thumb sucking

Thumb sucking is common in infants and toddlers and usually doesn’t cause issues if stopped by age 4.

Prolonged thumb sucking can lead to dental problems, such as misalignment of teeth or changes in the roof of the mouth. If a child continues thumb sucking beyond this age, parents should consult a dentist for advice.

Baby bottle tooth decay

Baby bottle tooth decay occurs when sugary liquids like milk or juice cling to a child’s teeth, leading to decay. To prevent this, avoid putting a baby to bed with a bottle and ensure regular cleaning of the child’s teeth and gums. Water can be used as a nighttime beverage.

Teeth grinding (bruxism)

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is common in children, especially during sleep. It can be caused by stress, misaligned teeth, or other factors. If grinding is frequent, it can wear down teeth and lead to discomfort. Parents should discuss the issue with their child’s dentist, who may recommend monitoring, relaxation techniques, or In some cases, a custom mouth guard.

Dental anxiety

Dental anxiety is a common issue among children, characterized by fear or apprehension about visiting the dentist. This anxiety can stem from various factors, including fear of pain, unfamiliar environments, or negative past experiences.

Prepare children by discussing what to expect at their visit, using positive reinforcement, and visiting the office beforehand to familiarize them with the environment.

Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene practices are vital for children’s dental health. Parents and caretakers should stay informed about common issues and consult their dentist for personalized advice to ensure the health of their child’s smile.

John Bisson, DDS, is a dentist and owns Bisson Dental in Brookings. Dr. Bisson is originally from Sturgis, but moved to Brookings in 2015 and opened Bisson Dental in 2018. For more information about Bisson Dental, go here. Follow The Prairie Doc at www.prairiedoc.org and on Facebook featuring On Call with the Prairie Doc, a medical Q&A show providing health information based on science, built on trust, on SDPB and streaming live on Facebook most Thursdays at 7 p.m.