As the primary teeth come out (exfoliate), the permanent teeth begin to come into a child’s mouth. This process begins at approximately six or seven years of age. These teeth will continue to come in (erupt) as a child grows and develops into their teenage years. It is imperative that children learn good oral hygiene practices from young ages to maintain their permanent teeth for a lifetime.
Children need to learn how to brush properly (twice daily) with soft bristled tooth brushes, as well as clean in between their teeth (once daily) with floss or another interdental cleaning device. It is best if children brush their teeth with toothpastes that contain fluoride to fight cavities and decalcification (the loss of calcium from bones or teeth). In addition to daily oral hygiene, it is important that children visit the dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings. This way the dentist can monitor any problem areas and apply fluoride treatments to assist in keeping permanent teeth healthy and strong. Many dentists will recommend that children have sealants placed on their permanent first and second molars in order to protect the chewing surfaces from decay. The chewing surfaces of teeth have grooves and pits which attract plaque and bacteria and can develop cavities (caries) quickly if not cleaned properly or protected with properly applied sealants.
Many parents need to monitor the types of food regularly eaten by children in order to keep teeth healthy and cavity-free. The best way to limit the build-up of plaque and calculus is to limit foods and drinks with high sugar quantities. Not only candy and soda, but breads and pasta are carbohydrates that contain large amounts of sugar which break down and stick to the teeth. If these sugars and other substances are not removed from the teeth promptly, they will cause plaque and calculus, which can only be removed by the dental hygienist at your general dentist’s office. Also, staying away from drinks like soda and other dark beverages reduces the risk of staining teeth, which allows children to maintain whiter, brighter smiles.
-Dr. David R. Sain
These tips are found in The Journal of the American Dental Association.
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