Fact of Fiction: Babies and Kids Oral Health

Babies get fevers when teething:

Fiction: Contrary to popular belief, it is not normal for a teething baby to have a fever. Diarrhea and rashes are also not normal. If your infant has a fever or diarrhea while teething or continues to be cranky and uncomfortable, call your physician.

Baby teeth are important:

Fact: Baby teeth hold places in the mouth for adult teeth. When a baby tooth is lost too early, the permanent teeth can drift into the empty space and make it difficult to other adult teeth to find room when they come in. This can make teeth crooked or crowded. Taking good care of your child’s baby teeth may help to avoid other problems when he or she is older.

Malocclusions/bad bites aren’t serious:

Fiction: Malocclusions, or bad bites, can be serious. If not treated early, a bad bite can make it difficult to keep teeth and gums clean where teeth are crooked or crowded, increasing the risk for cavities and gum disease.

Diluting juice is better for your child’s teeth:

Fiction: There’s a saying in the dental world that goes like this: “Snack and sip all day? Risk decay!” Don’t put your smile at risk by drinking too many sugary drinks. If you do drink something sweet, try and rinse your mouth with water afterward. Brush your teeth two times a day with a fluoride toothpaste.

Getting a sealant put on a tooth hurts:

Fiction: Sealing a tooth is fast and easy and protects your child’s teeth from decay. Sealants act as barriers to cavity-prone areas.

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