February is Children’s Dental Health Month

The health of your child’s baby teeth is important to us at Penz Dental Care! Baby teeth help your child eat healthy foods, maintain space for the permanent teeth, and help them talk and smile. 

Tips for caring for your child's smile:

  1. Never put baby to bed with a bottle. Prolonged exposure to sugars, especially at night when saliva flow is decreased, creates an environment for cavities to develop.
     
  2. Be careful of foods that appear healthy but are really sticky and high in sugar. Examples include raisins, dried fruit, whole grain crackers, and granola bars. A balanced diet from a variety of food groups and limit snacking between mealtimes can help protect their teeth from decay.
     
  3. Bring your child to the dentist before his or her first birthday. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children to be seen by a dentist once their first tooth comes in and no later than their first birthday. During this visit, we check for cavities and development, as well as discuss how to care for your child's teeth. It should be a fun, positive experience and a great way for your child to get comfortable seeing the dentist!
     
  4. Help your children brush their teeth two times per day. For older children who like to brush themselves, make sure you check for completeness. Fluoride toothpaste should be used as soon as the first tooth comes in. A smear or “grain of rice” amount of toothpaste is appropriate until the age of three, then use a pea size amount from ages 3-6 years old.

Follow these tips and your child will be on track for lifelong dental health!