When it comes to caring for your baby’s smile, it’s all too easy for parents to find conflicting advice. At Children’s Dentistry of Northborough, Dr. Jolanta Macdonald and our caring team help families sort through infant dental care myths and provide reliable, evidence-based guidance for lifelong oral health.
Here are a couple of big ones!
Myth #1: Baby Teeth Don’t Matter
Some parents believe that because primary (baby) teeth eventually fall out, they aren’t important. In reality, primary teeth play a critical role in proper speech development, biting, chewing, and alignment among permanent teeth. Plus, in the short run, neglecting a child’s baby teeth increases the chances of developing painful cavities.
Myth #2: Fluoride Isn’t Safe for Babies
Another common misconception is that fluoride is harmful to infants. The truth is that small, age-appropriate amounts of fluoride are safe and protect developing teeth from decay. During the first dental visit in Northborough for infants, Dr. Macdonald and our team can provide tips for proper fluoride usage based on your baby’s age and specific needs.
Myth #3: Pacifiers and Thumb-Sucking Are Always Bad
Pacifiers and thumb-sucking are normal soothing habits for babies and toddlers. They can become an issue, however, if their use continues beyond the preschool years. Longer term, these habits can affect proper tooth alignment and jaw development. Our team can provide you with gentle strategies to help your kids naturally grow out of them.
The Truth About Infant Oral Care
Infant oral care in Northborough, MA, is about prevention, establishing healthy routines early, and knowing fact from fiction. For instance, baby teeth matter, fluoride is safe when used correctly, and pacifier use only becomes a concern if it persists too long. And most importantly, regular checkups and supportive guidance can help you ensure your kids’ smiles develop properly!
Gentle, Supportive Infant Oral Health in Northborough, MA
If you’re in Northborough and want an experienced dental team to guide you through the crucial early stages of your baby’s dental development, contact Dr. Jolanta Macdonald and the excellent Children’s Dentist of Northborough team to schedule your baby’s all-important first dental appointment!