What Are Some Myths About Children’s Dentistry?

A child’s smile is continuously evolving throughout their youth. From their first tooth to their initial permanent molar, there are so many changes as they grow up. Unfortunately, several myths about children’s dentistry are out there that may halt progress in your little one’s dental development. Read along as your dentist in Houston debunks some of the most common misconceptions.

Cavities Are Only Caused by Sugar

Contrary to popular belief, sugar is not the main culprit behind cavities. Starchy foods like chips and crackers can increase the amount of plaque in your mouth and lead to tooth decay and cavities. Children must brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup.

It’s Not Safe for Kids to Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Did you know tooth decay is possible as soon as the first tooth erupts? Luckily, you can prevent cavities with fluoride toothpaste. Since small children are likely to swallow toothpaste, it’s recommended to only use about the size of a grain of rice for kids aged two and younger. If your child is three years or older and can spit when brushing, you can use a pea-sized amount.

Pacifiers and Thumb-Sucking Will Ruin a Child’s Smile

Sucking is a natural reflex in babies – they even suck their thumb or fingers in the womb! So, it’s completely OK for newborns and infants to use a pacifier. In addition to helping babies self-soothe, pacifiers also decrease the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Most children will stop sucking on their thumb or using a pacifier from age 2-4. It’s only an area of concern if the habit continues past four years old, as it can cause changes in the roof of the mouth and alignment issues.

Baby Teeth Don’t Matter

Some people believe that baby teeth are insignificant since “they’re going to fall out anyway” – but this is far from the truth. In fact, primary teeth play a much more essential role than you may think! They help children eat and speak properly while preserving facial structure and acting as placeholders for permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is lost too early, either from injury or decay, it can cause surrounding teeth to shift, potentially blocking out future adult teeth and making them come in crooked or become impacted.

Baby Teeth Erupt at Six Months Old

Baby teeth can actually erupt when a child is anywhere from 3-14 months old. But there’s no telling when exactly they’ll come in, as it varies for each person. However, their journey starts far earlier than that. The primary teeth begin developing within the sixth week of fetal development and are already present in the jaw at birth!

Children Should Never Chew Gum

False! Chewing sugar-free gum can be good for your child’s teeth, as it increases saliva production and helps keep cavities away. Plus, without sugar, the bacteria won’t produce enough acids to cause damage to their teeth. 

Now that some myths about children’s dentistry have been addressed, you can help your child develop good dental habits from an early age and send them down the right path toward a happy, healthy life!

About the Practice

At The Castleberry Center, our facility is designed to offer our patients an extraordinary experience. From the latest technology in cosmetic dentistry to the most opulent amenities in patient comfort, we have created an environment that will make your next dental visit a relaxing and pampering treat! Once your child is old enough for biannual dental cleanings and exams, Dr. Darrick Castleberry will ensure that their smile remains in stellar condition. You can make an appointment on his website or by calling (281) 320-9600.