Commonly Asked Questions from Parents

Commonly Asked Questions from Parents
By Stephanie DeFilippo, DDS

Today's article will focus on commonly asked questions by parents. We will start with, "When should I start brushing my baby's teeth?" I recommend using a finger brush to clean your baby's gums before the teeth erupt. When your baby's teeth erupt, they are subject to decay as soon as they push through the gums. Some parents of children who have early decay will tell me, "the tooth grew in that way" which isn't always true. Usually, the teeth were not cleaned during eruption and were severely decayed when they were fully through the gums. I cannot stress enough how important it is to brush your baby's teeth before bedtime and after any bottles given in the middle of the night when teeth start to erupt.

Another commonly asked question is, "when should my baby see the dentist for the first time?" The AAPD recommends that babies see the dentist by the age of one. This visit will be informative for the parent and the dentist will be able to look at your baby’s teeth and determine if everything is healthy. Your dentist will continue to evaluate your child every six months.

Some parents ask if cavities are hereditary. It is important to know that active decay can be passed to your children by drinking out of the same cup, kissing on the lips, eating off the same utensils, etc. If you have active decay in your mouth then it is recommended that you see your dentist to have this decay treated. This will also show your children that you have value for your teeth and they should as well. Brush and floss with your children to show them that you agree that oral hygiene is a priority.

Fluoride is a topic that comes up when talking with parents. Many surrounding areas have taken the fluoride out of their water supply for various reasons. The AAPD states that fluoride in the drinking water is the most cost effective way of preventing decay in communities. There is a fear that decay rates will rise without fluoride in the water supply. Talk to your dental professional about a fluoride supplement and always have the hygienist apply fluoride varnish after your child’s appointment.

“Why should you fix a baby tooth?” Many parents feel that they shouldn't have their children's primary tooth cavities fixed because the baby teeth will fall out eventually. Your child's age must be taken into account when making this decision. Many of the baby teeth won't fall out until your child is 10 to 12 years old. In many cases it's important to have the tooth fixed before it causes future problems such as space maintenance. One of the functions of baby teeth is to make space for the permanent teeth. Eating, smiling and preventing pain are some other reasons to fix baby tooth cavities.

If you have any questions about your, or your children's teeth, please ask your dental professional. They are never too busy to answer any question you may have. In the meantime, keep brushing, flossing and having your teeth cleaned every six months!

Stephanie DeFilippo, DDS, is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and a pediatric dentist and co-owner of Just Kids at Gettysburg Dental Associates.

Drs. Null, Seidel & Dental Associates  
353 York Street Front
Gettysburg, PA 17325
(717) 334-8193