What You Need to Know About Children’s Oral Health

We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again—keeping tiny teeth healthy is just as important as keeping that permanent smile in tip-top shape. That’s why the MDA encourages kids and their caregivers to make dental health a priority. We’ve even enlisted the help of one cute MI kid to spread the word!

For a pint-sized dose of dental care inspiration, we recommend watching this informative and adorable video together.  By establishing a positive oral care routine early, Sofia sets herself up for a lifetime of healthy habits. Now there’s a reason to smile!

Did you know that kids’ oral health can greatly affect their overall health both now and in the future? Don’t just take our word for it. Take it from your MDA dentist!

Here are our Top 10 Facts You Should Know About Children’s Oral Health:

1. Most children lose their first tooth around age 6.
2. Children should stop using pacifiers and thumbsucking by age 3 to 4.
3. Tooth brushing should start once a child’s first tooth appears.
4. Childhood tooth decay (or cavities) is the most common illness in children.
5. Childhood tooth decay (or cavities) can be prevented.
6. Sealants help protect children’s permanent molars from cavities.
7. Community water fluoridation is a safe and effective way for children to get this tooth-protecting mineral.
8. Mouthguards aren’t just for pro-athletes; they’re for pewee mouths too!
9. When a child breaks or knocks out an adult tooth, it’s possible to save it!
10. Children should have their first dental check up by their first birthday.

Have questions about something on this list? We cover more about each of the topics above in our new expanded Top 10 Facts About Children’s Oral Health — FAQ Edition. If you have additional questions, take your little one to an MDA dentist and ask away. Don’t have an MDA dentist? Find one near you at SmileMichigan.com.

For more commonly asked questions about dental health complete with dentist-approved answers, check out our MDA FAQ page.