This post is sponsored by Penz Dental Care
“Cleaning with children in the house is like brushing your teeth while eating Oreos.”
Can you relate? Being a parent takes a lot of effort. It’s often difficult to see the impact we’re making. What if I told you that you can make a direct, positive impact on your children’s wellbeing every day? I’m here to tell you—you definitely can when it comes to their dental health.
Parents, you are the single-most important factor in children’s dental health. As moms (and dads, grandparents, and caregivers), you are the ones standing in the bathrooms with your kids each day helping them brush. You provide and encourage them to choose healthy snacks. You make sure they see a dentist. You’re there day-in and day-out doing the hard work.
As a dentist, I love to think I am the most important influence in your family’s dental health. But the truth is, you’re the MVP. Let’s partner to ensure your kids have healthy smiles!
Here are some commonly asked questions about children’s dental health:
When should my child first see a dentist?
The first dental visit should occur either by age one or when the child gets his/her first tooth, whichever happens earlier. At this visit, dental instruments and equipment will be introduced, teeth will be examined for cavities and to ensure proper eruption, and topical fluoride will be applied. It is also a good opportunity for us to discuss oral hygiene and diet for your child.
What kind of toothpaste should my child use?
Use fluoride toothpaste as soon as teeth come through the gums. Children under the age of three can have a “smear” or grain-of-rice sized amount of toothpaste. Children over three can use a pea-sized amount.
How often should my child brush?
Brush for two minutes, twice per day. Parents should assist young children and check for completeness. Nighttime brushing is the most important!
What are sealants? Are they important?
Sealants are a thin plastic coating applied over the chewing surfaces of back teeth where there are deep grooves and the risk of cavities is higher. They are usually applied as soon as the six-year and 12-year molars erupt through the gums. Sealants are an important tool to help prevent cavities for your child. Plus placing them is easy and pain free!
How can diet impact my child’s dental health?
Eating healthy food and drinking fluoridated water is vital for dental health. Candy and sweets are the foods most blamed for causing cavities. However, some lesser-known cavity causers include crackers, chips, and dried fruits that get stuck in the teeth and remain there for a long time. Try to have your child eat snacks in one sitting, rather than grazing throughout the day.
Are “bad teeth” inherited?
Yes and no. Some factors, like tooth formation and position, may be genetic. The bacteria that causes tooth decay is not genetic. However, it can be transferred from parent to child through contact. Don’t share utensils with your child or “clean” a pacifier by putting it in your mouth. If you have a history of cavities, you can transfer harmful cavity causing bacteria to your child at a very early age, therefore increasing his/her risk of developing cavities. Brushing, flossing, rinsing, and maintaining a balanced diet will help keep your child’s teeth cavity free.
Your child needs you to be their dental health MVP! Dental professionals are available to partner and coach along the way—don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions. Thanks for all you do to ensure your child has a healthy smile.
Dr. Matt Penz is the owner and general dentist at Penz Dental Care in Rochester. He’s a proud Mayo High School graduate (Go Spartans!) and St. Olaf College alumnus (Um Ya Ya!). He graduated from The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry before returning to open a practice in his hometown, Rochester. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Kate, and three daughters, Sophie, Lucy, and Ella. Penz Dental Care is accepting new patients and welcomes you!
