This blog post from David Rice DDS in Elgin is for new parents, or couples planning for children sometime in the future.
An Epidemic of Tooth Decay in Young Children
The statistics on early childhood tooth decay are sobering. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 42% of U.S. children between 2 and 11 years old have decay in their primary teeth.
You do your best to protect your children from illness and infection. It’s essential to understand that tooth decay is an infectious disease with serious long-term consequences.
Bearing that in mind, we recommend a child should have a first dental visit within six months of the first tooth coming in, and no later than 12 months of age – whichever comes first.
Educate yourselves on how to prohibit early childhood dental decay before teeth erupt. Then you will avoid creating habits that put teeth at risk.
Are You Up To Speed On Best Practices?
For example, putting a child to bed with a bottle creates an ideal environment for cavities. Furthermore, at-will breastfeeding during the night can have the same effect.
Sleep-deprived new moms and dads have a lot to worry about and it’s impossible to act on every worthwhile intention. Just make sure your child’s dental health isn’t put on the back burner while you figure out how to make everything work!
At David Rice DDS in Elgin, we want the best possible dental health for all of our patients. Our services include general and family dentistry, and restorative dentistry. Call to schedule an appointment today!
Contact David A. Rice, DDS:
847-741-2353
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1972 Larkin Ave Ste 1
Elgin, Illinois
60123