Seeking the Truth: Debunking 3 Myths About Children’s Dentistry

Tired of falling victim to the myths about children’s dentistry in Phillipsburg? You’re not alone. Far too many opinions based on experiences and not facts make it hard for parents to decipher what is true and what is false. Fortunately, a local dentist is here to debunk three of the most common myths and provide the facts you need to know to help your little one maintain better oral health.  

Myth #1: You Shouldn’t Worry About Baby Teeth Cavities

While it is true these teeth will ultimately fall out one day, they need to remain healthy and strong to avoid developing cavities. The reason is that they serve as placeholders for your child’s permanent teeth, so if they become plagued with decay, it will not only cause your little one much pain and discomfort but also lead to possible infection. If bad bacteria enter your child’s bloodstream, there is also the concern they might develop problems as it relates to their overall health.

It is always better to seek immediate treatment for a cavity than to leave it alone. With the right level of care, you can keep these small pearly whites firmly in place until it’s time for them to naturally fall out.

Myth #2: My Child Can Freely Drink Fruit Juice Out of a Sippy Cup

While fruit juice is okay in moderation, it is much better to give water to your little one so that you have nothing to worry about when it comes to cavities. Fruit juice contains a lot of sugar, which can cause bad bacteria and harmful acids to penetrate the tooth enamel and create dental caries. Choosing to give your child fruit juice in a sippy cup makes the problem much worse because it will likely sit much longer than it should, especially if your little one is preparing for a nap. As a general rule of thumb, never give your child a sippy cup full of any beverage other than water if they require one before a nap. Try to minimize their exposure to fruit juice any time of day and be ready to brush their teeth immediately following should you choose to give it to them.

Myth #3: Children Can Brush Their Teeth By Themselves

Children need assistance when it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene habits at home. Brushing and flossing are usually not independent tasks until a child reaches the age of 7 or 8. The reason for this is that they are still building their manual dexterity during this time and often find it hard to reach areas toward the back of the mouth when cleaning. To ensure all parts of their smile are thoroughly cleaned and free of bacteria, it is best to step in and help them until they have proven they are capable of cleaning their teeth themselves.

Now that these three myths are dispelled, don’t be afraid to ask your child’s dentist in Phillipsburg any additional questions or concerns you might learn along the way.

About the Author
Dr. N. Garcia-DeMartino is a trusted dentist in Phillipsburg who enjoys working closely with her patients to develop trustworthy, long-lasting relationships. Transparent in her diagnosis and treatment recommendation, she will provide you with the information you need to make the right decision about your child’s dental health. She will also listen closely to any questions, concerns, and goals to ensure the suggestions made meet the needs of your little one. If you are interested in meeting with a dentist you can trust, visit our website or call (908) 859-5260.