A more nutritious diet can help your child live a fuller, more healthy childhood. There are endless dietary actions that you can take to improve your child’s health, but one of the most common and effective methods is to add more fruits and vegetables to their diet. But, not all fruit was created equal. Sometimes, fruit can wreak havoc on young teeth that leads to cavities and tooth decay. Here’s some instances when fruit isn’t so peachy for your child’s health.
Flossing is a key part of getting a healthy smile and keeping cavities and gum disease away. Yet, a recent study conducted by the American Dental Association (ADA) revealed that just over %50 of Americans floss daily, while nearly %19 don’t floss at all. Added to that, mouths come in all different shapes and sizes, and that extends to the composition and arrangement of teeth. All floss isn’t made equal, and some are created with specific smiles in mind.
One of the most important tools in your child’s mouth-health arsenal is their toothbrush. Often overlooked and under considered, it is vital that you take the time to buy the right toothbrush for your child. Below are some smart shopping guidelines to consider when buying your child’s next toothbrush.
February is Dental Health Month, a good time to review your dental health routine with your child. We often tell parents there are two areas of focus for maintaining healthy teeth, proper diet and proper hygiene.
It starts with a healthy diet - A well balanced diet incorporating plenty of dairy, fruits and vegetables are essential for healthy teeth and gums. Please be cautious of raisins and chewy/gummy fruit snacks. Although made with fruit or fruit juices, these snacks stick to your child's teeth. These sugars will sit on their teeth and create an opportunity for decay if not brushed away quickly. Cheese is an excellent choice for a healthy snack. In recent studies cheese has been proven to be the best snack for healthy teeth. Stick to water and milk, the best choice for growing children. Juice should be limited as it is another major source of sugar.
Keep up a consistent routine - Keep your child’s mouth healthy. It is important to watch over their brushing skills until at least 8 years old. They need to make sure they are covering all surfaces and brushing for enough time and to brush at least twice a day. A good rule of thumb is to ask your child to hum the “Happy Birthday” song two times to be sure they are brushing long enough. Make sure tooth brushes are replaced frequently (roughly every 3-4 months). Flossing, yes it is important at a young age! As long as two teeth are touching, flossing should start. Similar to adults, children should visit the dentist every six months for a check-up, cleaning, and fluoride. The need for x-rays varies for each child based on which teeth are present and the child’s risk profile for getting cavities.
When should my child have their first dental visit?
We are often asked when a child should come in for their first dental check-up. The guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) are that the first dental visit should be no later than the child's 1st birthday. Typically the first tooth appears between ages six to twelve months. It is important to establish a regular dental exam routine early. This will help promote a lifetime of healthy teeth for your child. An early visit can detect issues prior to becoming major problems.
Halley White Pediatric Dentistry has experienced tremendous growth in Wilmington and Jacksonville. The practice has officially expanded again, and is thrilled to partner with Dr. Andy Johnson to become White & Johnson Pediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Johnson moved to Wilmington from Charlotte with his wife Heidi, daughter Lauren, and son Sam.
Dr. Andy took a unique path to dentistry, graduating with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He went on to work for several years in this field prior to pursuing his true calling in dentistry. He received his doctorate degree from the University Of North Carolina School Of Dentistry. Following graduation, he completed two additional years of specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.
Dr. Halley and Dr. Andy are so excited to collaborate and grow the business that Dr. Halley started in 2007. They have a fresh new look and are excited about the future. Come see them!
Each month we select one lucky patient to be our “Patient of the Month”. We randomly select one winner to receive one of our fabulous prizes. Our past winners have received gift cards to Toys R’ Us, Rainbow Loom kits and Arts/Crafts gift basket, just to name a few! Be sure to bring your smiling face into our office to be entered to win!
