Did you know that February is Children’s Dental Health Month and Gum Disease Awareness Month? Both your child’s dental health and your gum health are very important to learn about and we’re going to use this month’s blog to talk about it!
One of the most important things you can do for your child’s dental health is to have successful and positive experiences at the dental office. When people have multiple positive experiences, that can lead them to having a positive healthy relationship with their future dentists. Unfortunately, when children have negative experiences at the dental office this very frequently leads to fear, anxiety and procrastination of dental work.
Parents should also be diligent in making sure their children brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes and floss at least once a day. One thing parents can do is to make a habit of brushing at the same time demonstrating proper technique and ensuring they brush for a full two minutes.
It is also important to not speak negatively about the dentist or about cavities so you are not generating fear surrounding their visit.
If your child is too young to brush their teeth, it’s still important to maintain a healthy oral environment so the children can eat the proper food pain-free and that the oil condition is healthy for the incoming permanent teeth. Having healthy habits is the key to success since we get our first permanent teeth at the age of six.
Gum disease, while it may not apply to your newborn, is important to learn about especially since it is hereditary. Meaning if you have other people in your family that have it, it's important to make sure that you do not have it.
The best thing you can do to avoid gum disease is to brush your teeth every day for two minutes, floss once a day, and use a Waterpik if you have one available. Not to mention seeing your dentist twice a year for a regular checkup, x-rays, and a dental cleaning can be crucial in avoiding gum disease.
If you aren’t sure whether you have gum disease or not, it’s best to see your dentist. Symptoms can look like inflamed gum tissue, bad breath, and loose teeth. If you have red or swollen gum tissue, or persistent bad breath, it is important to see a dentist immediately. Having untreated gum disease can affect your overall health. Gum disease has been shown to have a negative effect on people with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and pregnancy.
Gingivitis is the most common form of gum disease. This is slightly red and inflamed gum tissue that can be treated by simple cleaning and diligent home care.
Periodontitis is it much more aggressive type of gum disease that weakens the bone around the teeth and can lead to toothless and significant gum tissue pain.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s dental health or gum disease, make sure to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
