February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

While most people associate February with Valentines Day, February is also National Children’s Dental Health Month!  This month, Dr. Mary Rose focuses on the importance of oral health in children.

Just like adults, children should visit their dentist every six months.  This helps develop good oral health habits, which will lead to a lifetime of healthy gums and teeth.  Dr. Mary Rose suggests making a hygiene appointment as soon as the first baby teeth come in.  Children usually see their first baby tooth between 6 months to one year of age.

Last month, Dr. Mary Rose discussed the benefits of sealants.  After sealants are applied in children, the risk of decay can be reduced by nearly 80% in molars. 

If your child is diagnosed with decay on their primary (baby) teeth or their permanent teeth, Dr. Mary Rose recommends that the decay is removed to allow your child to eat and speak normally.  Removing decay will prevent the child from developing an abscess as well as keeping their teeth from shifting.

Dr. Mary Rose suggests brushing your child’s teeth as soon as the first one appears.  If your child is under 3 years old, you only need a small amount of toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).  Dr. Mary Rose suggests flossing your child’s teeth daily starting at the age of 3.  Lastly, make sure your child eats a well-balanced diet. 

If you have any questions about your child’s hygiene, Dr. Mary Rose would be happy to answer any questions you may have.