Dover dental team wants to keep kids smiling

  • Published
  • By 436th Dental Squadron
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  February is National Children's Dental Health Month; and unless they are dental professionals, parents may ask themselves the following questions related to their children's dental health:

At what age should my child be seen by a dentist?

How frequently should my child be brushing?

Is my child at risk for tooth decay?

While the 436th Dental Squadron recommends parents ask their dentist these questions, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry states that children should see a dentist within their first year of life. The Dover dental team is offering up some inspiration to get parents to make that first crucial appointment.

Tooth decay is a disease:
Dental caries, commonly referred to as tooth decay, is the most prevalent chronic infectious disease afflicting children in this country. Tooth decay is caused by a bacteria in the mouth and it can be prevented. Left undetected and untreated, the disease called Early Childhood Caries can cause the early loss of baby, also called primary, teeth.

Poor dental health affects more than the mouth:

The early loss of primary teeth can make it difficult to form words and speak clearly. This may persist until the permanent front teeth are in place; around seven to nine years of age. Aside from physical difficulty, a child's self-image can be affected if primary teeth are broken, decayed or missing. Additionally, more evidence is showing a relation to dental health and healthy function in other parts of the body.

An early start to dental care is critical:

The American Dental Association urges parents to consult with their dentist when the first teeth start erupting. It is considered advantageous that the child's first visit occur within six months of eruption or no later than 12 months old. This helps parents receive oral health education based on the child's developmental needs.

For more information on pediatric dental health, visit www.aapd.org or contact the Dover AFB dental clinic at, (302) 677-2846.