Parents Need To Focus On Children’s Oral Care Early On To Prevent Cavities

Slate reported on the importance for parents to brush their toddler’s teeth and visit a pediatric dentist early in the child’s life. Slate claims 60 percent of five-year-olds have had at least one cavity, with many having up to 10 cavities, while the number of overall cavities has been declining. American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry president Jade Miller says, “Dental decay is preventable,” and the AAPD “recommends that parents bring their children to the dentist when they get their first tooth or by the time they turn 1, at the latest.” Pediatric dentists can also stifle cavities by applying a fluoride varnish to children’s teeth, “which causes fluoride to be released when the pH of a tooth drops as a result of acid” released from bacteria in response to consumed sugary products. Pediatric dentist visits can also detect more significant dental or jaw problems, as well as “educuate parents on what to expect during teething and how best to care for kids’ teeth.”