Around the world, mothers typically take responsibility for researching and selecting their family’s healthcare and dental providers. In many cases, mothers innately want to care for and nurture their children. Recent studies suggest that maternal instincts play a large role in determining the oral health of their children. Your Pella family dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Allen, discusses recent findings which links mothers, children, and oral health.
Early Dental Care
Unbeknownst to many mothers, their child’s oral health comes into play when the child still lives in the womb. The nutritional decisions made by a pregnant mother impact the nutritional decisions that the child will later make. A diet rich in sugar could predispose the child to a predilection for sugary snacks and sweet treats. Children gain nutrients and sustenance from everything their pregnant mothers eat; we recommend that pregnant mothers exercise caution and restrain when it comes to selecting food choices.
Post-Pregnancy Dental Care
Studies show that mothers’ ability to handle excessive stress and parenting duties impacts the oral health of their children. An increase of maternal instincts can lead mothers to take an active role in maintaining their children’s oral health. Some parents simply set up the routine and hope that their children will follow through. However, making an active attempt to illustrate the importance of early dental hygiene can lead to a reduce risk of developing gum disease later in life. Gum disease remains a serious problem in America. Currently, nearly 80% of American adults will suffer from some type of gum disease during their lifetime.
Gum disease serves as the leading cause of adult tooth loss as well. Don’t send your child on the path to adult tooth loss; make sure they know the basics of oral care and dental hygiene. Children should brush twice each day for at least two minutes at a time. Children aren’t renowned as the most diligent brushers; make sure they brush every tooth. Also, the American Dental Association recommends that young patients floss at least once per day.
Don’t forget to rinse with an antimicrobial, ADA-approved mouthrinse. Tooth brushing can provide a time for excitement for your children. Take them to select their own toothbrush which features their favorite character. We see children in our Pella dentist office and can provide them with other helpful tips to aid in preventing the development of cavities.
Schedule Your Pella Dental Visit
Dr. Jeffrey Allen provides comfortable dental care to patients of all ages. Call (641) 628-1121 today to schedule a checkup and cleaning, cosmetic consultation, or second-opinion visit. We are located on the west side of the historic town square in Pella, IA. Please see the map for directions.