All East Orlando families should be concerned about their children’s teeth and childhood is the right time to install good dental hygiene habits that will last a life time. Dr. Comrie and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend that your child visit the dentist before the age of 1. Although most teeth may not yet be visible, they are indeed developing within the gums and should be examined by a dentist to make sure they are developing properly.
Parents should establish a routine with very young children of lifting the child’s lip, wiping the mouth and inspecting the teeth and gums. This exercise conditions the toddler into allowing parents, caregivers and even the dentist to examine and clean the teeth on a regular basis. Indeed we cannot expect very small children to brush their teeth and so caregivers and parents must take on this task from the emergence of a child’s very first tooth. Remember that bacteria and plaque are as much a threat to children’s teeth as they are to adult teeth.
Cavity prevention should be a primary goal for children and this means brushing at least twice daily with regular flossing. Evening time brushing is very important so harmful bacteria and food does not settle on the child’s teeth overnight. Sugary candy or drinks must be cleansed from the mouth quickly or the sugars will begin to erode teeth enamel. Children by the age 5 should have the manual dexterity to brush their teeth on their own and spit out the toothpaste but may need to be consistently reminded by parents.
Parents may want to speak with Dr. Comrie about dental sealers that can be applied to permanent molars and back teeth and will help protect the teeth from decay over the long term. Of course, fluoridation in water has been proven to help prevent teeth decay and is provided by most municipal water systems, but this does not negate the need for regular brushing and flossing as well as regular visits to the dentist.
Dr. Comrie encourages that you make a habit of bringing your children in for regular dental checkups and cleanings. Installing the habit of good dental hygiene prevents dental decay, promotes good health and a youthful appearance over one’s lifetime. Call Comrie Dental at (407) 275-8800 to schedule a convenient dental appointment for your children.