Page 100 - South Mississippi Living - April, 2025

HEALTHY LIVING
Good oral health in children is essential to their well-being and happiness! A healthy smile is an indication that a child has good nutrition and is pain free. Below are some key facts about our children and grandchildren’s oral health.
BABY TEETH ARE IMPORTANT
Every child should have 20 "baby" or deciduous teeth. These "baby" teeth are placeholders for permanent or adult teeth and should be cared for properly. A child should lose all baby teeth from the ages of 6 through 12.
EARLY DENTAL VISITS ARE CRUCIAL
Every child should visit a dental office by the age of one. Early visits for checkups and cleaning help children to have a positive experience and to prevent future dental problems such as decay or malignment of permanent teeth.
TOOTH DECAY IN CHILDREN IS COMMON
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood. Approximately 50 million children are affected by it. If tooth decay is left untreated it can become painful, and children will suffer sleep loss and miss time at school.
POOR DIET AND SUGAR ARE THE ENEMY
Sugary snacks, drinks, and candy left on the teeth can cause dental decay. This is done by creating an acidic environment in the mouth which allows the bacteria to attack the enamel on the teeth. Dental infection in children can spread from the mouth to other areas of the body.
BRUSHING AND FLOSSING ARE ESSENTIAL
Brushing teeth twice daily with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste helps remove the plaque and bacteria. Flossing helps to clean in between where the brush can’t reach. Fluoride in toothpastes and those applied at the dental office can strengthen teeth and help prevent cavities.
Developing good oral health habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children to get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
story by Dr. Karen Crews
9072 Lorraine Rd., Gulfport
228.896.1840 www.beachviewfamilydental.com
100 | April 2025 www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living