Exposing Several Dental Care Myths New Parents May Believe
Raising a child can be one of the most important things that you do with your life, and it will require you to have accurate information when it concerns your child's medical and dental needs. In particular, dental care is a topic that is often plagued by misconceptions, and it can be beneficial to have these notions refuted.
Myth: Children Always Need Fluoride Supplements
Fluoride can dramatically reduce the risk of teeth developing cavities. While it is easy to see the benefits of fluoride, there are some parents that assume children will always need to take fluoride supplements to enjoy these benefits. Luckily, this is not the case for most people as fluoride is often added to municipal water supplies. For those that get their water from a well, it is possible to have the water tested to determine whether or not it is providing sufficient amounts of fluoride so that you can decide if supplements will be right for your needs.
Myth: The Parent Cannot Be Present During Dental Procedures
Going to the dentist can be a frightening experience for any child. This can be particularly true when the child is needing to have a cavity filled or teeth extracted. The presence of a parent can be extremely reassuring to children in these stress-inducing situations. In fact, it can often be preferable for the parent to be present as this can make the dentist's task easier by keeping the child calm throughout the treatment. Sadly, there may be instances where the parent simply cannot be present due to space limitations. For example, if the child is needing to undergo major oral surgery, there may not be enough room in the surgery area for the required staff members and the parent.
Myth: A Dental Sealant Will Eliminate The Risk Of Cavities
Dental sealants have grown in popularity due to the substantial protection that they can offer. Yet, there is a frequent misconception that a dental sealant will eliminate the risk of cavities. While a dental sealant can lower the risk of a cavity forming, they will not completely eliminate the risk. This is due to the fact that these sealants are usually only applied to the top surface of teeth, and they can eventually be degraded by prolonged exposure to plaque and tartar. Due to these limitations, it is essential for you to make sure that your child is still following sound dental hygiene practices despite having their teeth sealed.
To learn more, contact a family dentist like Jeffrey S. Thaller DMD.
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