Does that get your attention? Many readers might be surprised by this statement, but it is indeed true. Tooth decay is the most common childhood disease and many parents might be dismayed to hear that they could pass on the bacteria that cause tooth decay to their baby or child.
There is no presence of the bacteria that cause tooth decay in the mouth of newborn babies. However, they are introduced to these bacteria early on by the sharing of utensils, straws, pacifiers, etc. Oftentimes a parent can be the one who unknowingly exposes their child to these bacteria. If a parent cleans a pacifier with their own mouth or uses the same spoon as their baby, they are passing their oral bacteria to their child. This isn't always a problem, but if a parent has active decay in their own mouth or doesn't practice optimal oral hygiene themselves, they are putting their child at risk. Parents must also be aware of the potential for another childcare provider (babysitter, nanny, grandparent, daycare worker) to pass on their own oral bacteria to their child.
This does not mean that a parent can never share a utensil with their child ever again; however, parents must understand the importance of their own oral health and that of their child. Children should visit the dentist within six months of the appearance of their first tooth or by twelve months of age. Implementing good oral hygiene early on will help children to understand the value of their oral health -- and parents are the optimal role models! Parents must model this behavior themselves and make their own oral health a priority. In turn, this will keep their children healthier and less susceptible to tooth decay.
And for those pregnant mothers, now is the time to have your teeth cleaned and a thoroughly examined so that any active decay in your mouth can be eliminated before your baby is born. Routine dental treatment is still safe during your pregnancy -- in fact, it will help both you and your baby to be healthier!
You can read more about the contagious nature of cavities here. If your child has not yet had their first dental visit or you have been putting off your own visit, do not hesitate to call Jacques Dentistry today to schedule an appointment!
