Children’s Dental Care Guidelines Updated

 The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recently updated its guidelines to reflect the recommendation that children should be seen by a dentist by the time they are 6 months to 12 months old to prevent tooth decay. Tooth decay is highly prevalent among children, accounting for over 40% of children that have tooth decay by the time they are in Kinder Garden.

 Baby teeth are not immune to tooth decay. Despite the fact that baby teeth are replaced by permanent teeth, the condition of baby teeth plays a role in the condition of permanent teeth. Furthermore, it is more difficult to seize the process of tooth decay in an infant. Thus, proactive measures are required to help prevent tooth decay in children.

Generally speaking, gum wiping should commence after your child is born. Once a first tooth erupts, the tooth should be cleaned daily. Your dentist can give you tips for proper brushing.  By one year’s old, your child should be drinking from a cup instead of a bottle.   Refrain from giving your child sugar sweetened drinks. There are many more instructions you can receive by going to your dentist to learn about taking care of your children’s teeth.

If you are interested in dentistry, contact Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas cosmetic dentist, for a consultation at 512-380-1300.