All Smiles: A Lifetime of Good Dental Health

February is national children’s dental health month, so there is no better time to talk about our precious teeth.

Memphis parents may be surprised to learn that tooth decay is one of the most common health problems in the United States. Tennessee has actually been reported to rank 38th in the nation for dental health, so we have work to do. 

Forming good habits starting at an early age can have a measurable impact on your long-term dental wellness. Blue Cross Blue Shield found that dental health plays a key role in someone’s self-esteem and quality of life and that decay is linked to chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and obesity.  

Brush and Floss Properly

Take the time to learn how to brush the right way. Dr. Timothy Kutas of Kutas Dentistry recommends using a soft to medium toothbrush and to gently move it in a circular motion. You want to be sure it has the ADA Seal of Acceptance, which is the gold standard for toothbrush quality. 

Watching yourself in the mirror can help to ensure that you do not miss any spots. When your child is very little, it is a good idea to supervise him to see that he removes all of the plaque. The American Dental Association suggests that families replace their toothbrushes every three to four months so they do the best job possible of cleaning the teeth. Kutas says that periodontal disease usually appears between the teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach, which makes flossing essential.

Eat Right

Calcium and vitamin D help to build strong teeth. Good sources include milk, yogurt, cheese, salmon, broccoli, and orange juice. Vitamin C, found in potatoes and leafy greens, can strengthen gums and protect you from gum disease. 

Antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables boost immunity and protect teeth and gums as well. Avoid problem foods and drinks like sugary beverages, especially before bedtime. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that anything with sticky sugar, like toffee, gum, caramel, and dried fruit can harm the teeth.  

Be Safe at Play

Many preventable dental issues come from not being properly protected while playing sports or doing recreational activities. For baseball and softball, a face protector is required. Properly fitted mouth guards should always be worn when playing any sport that poses a risk for injury. 

Schedule Dental Checkups

It is a common misconception that you should only see the dentist if you are in pain or suspect something is wrong. A routine dental cleaning and exam should be scheduled at least twice a year. Both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend that all kids see a pediatric dentist and establish a dental home before age 1. 

You want to be sure the dentist is a member of the American Dental Association and that the office is convenient to your home and has hours that are compatible with you. If you have dental benefits, you may want to first check to see who is in your network.

Do not be afraid to schedule a time for a consultation where you can simply meet the dentist and talk about your dental history before committing to an appointment. Some people may need to see the dentist more often if they are undergoing orthodontic treatment, have gum disease, or are a higher-risk patient. 

Bellano Dental Health says that you cannot always see or feel problems as they are happening. However, by visiting a dentist twice a year you can identify problems before they grow and become more serious.  

Save Your Smile

Remember that your family, dentist, and pediatrician are all partners in achieving optimal dental health. Families should find it comforting to know that the field of dentistry has experienced many advances over the years in terms of diagnostics and treatments, which make care more comfortable than before.

The American Dental Association says that your mouth is a window into the health of your body, as it can show signs of nutritional deficiencies or general infection. Often, diseases first become evident because of oral problems. When you have an action plan for how to take care of yourself and align with good team members, you will be prepared for a lifetime of good dental health and oral hygiene. ⎢

Jamie Lober, author of Pink Power (getpinkpower.com), is dedicated to providing information on women’s and pediatric health topics.