Dr. Brian Hale's San Antonio Cosmetic Dentistry Blog

Even though they will eventually lose their baby teeth, infants and children are not resistant to oral health problems. In 2002, a report of the Surgeon General found that tooth decay and cavities were five times more common than asthma among children.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2005 found that tooth decay is the most chronic disease among children ages 5 to 17. Oral problems among infants are of equal seriousness.

One of the main reasons for this is diet. The sugars found in sweet foods are just one problem. The sugars found in the following foods can also negatively impact a child's oral health:

Milk
Juice
Starches (chips and pretzels)

It is also more difficult to clean a child's teeth. This leads to bacteria growth and ultimately—tooth decay.

Although baby teeth (also called deciduous or primary teeth) are eventually replaced with permanent teeth, healthy baby teeth are fundamental to a child's overall health and development.

The following is a list of dental care necessities from birth on up:

Baby Teeth Cleaning - Baby teeth should be cleaned as soon as they erupt. Clean your baby's teeth with a soft washcloth or gauze after every bottle or meal. Use water without fluoride until approximately six months of age. Encourage your children to brush their own teeth once they have the coordination to do so (usually by age seven). Replace toothbrushes every two to three months.

First Dental Visit - It is important that your child see a dentist by age one to establish a long-term dental hygiene and professional dental cleaning plan.

Fluoride Treatments - Fluoride is a major component in the prevention of childhood dental caries. This is because fluoride alters the molecular structure of the tooth, making it more resistant to acid attack and decay.

Dental Flossing - Parent-assisted dental flossing should begin when two teeth erupt next to each other. Independent flossing should occur when children have the ability to do it on their own (usually by age 6).

Mouth Washing - Recommended by age seven, provided your child can perform the activity.

If you are considering cosmetic dentistry in San Antonio or the surrounding area, please call or e-mail us today to schedule your initial consultation with Brian Hale, D.D.S.