The spotlight is on children’s teeth this month, and parents are being reminded of the importance of avoiding tooth decay because it can have long-term consequences for kids. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and pediatric dentist Dr. Mira Albert says one in three children in the U.S, age two to five is affected by tooth decay. She says while parents are taking charge of their children’s health by choosing organic foods and being selective about the kinds of activities they participate in, often trips to the dentist are few and far between.
Albert says tooth decay is preventable. She says parents should take their children to the dentist by age one to help them feel at ease for when they do have to have dental work done. She says they should avoid putting babies to bed with a bottle because it can lead to rampant cavities, and should help them break the habit of using a pacifier by age three because it can lead to an overbite or speech defect.
Albert says another tip is to limit between-meal snacking. When they do get hungry before lunch or dinner, she says to give them low-sugar, low-carb snacks such as apple slices or carrots.
Albert says teething is a normal process every child goes through, and recommends avoiding teething gels that have medications. Instead she says to use a cold washcloth, or gently massage the gums with your fingertips.