Our teeth are covered with a sticky film of bacteria, called plaque (sounds like PLAK). When we eat or drink anything that contains sugar-such as cookies, candy, soda, juice, or sports drinks-bacteria turn the sugar into acids that can attack tooth enamel. Over time, these attacks may cause tooth decay, or cavities. The good news
read moreBaby Teeth: When They Come In, When They Fall Out A healthy mouth is part of a child’s overall health Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew their food, speak and smile. Your child’s teeth also help give his or her face its shape and keep space in the jaw for adult teeth. A baby’s
read moreHealthy Smiles for Mothers and Babies Good oral health habits not only help prevent problems during pregnancy, but they can also benefit the health of your baby. Before Your Baby Arrives Eat a Healthy Diet What you eat during pregnancy affects the growth of your unborn child – including their teeth. Your baby’s teeth begin to
read moreTooth decay is a disease that is caused by bacteria Tooth decay damages and breaks down teeth. When your child eats and drinks, bacteria in their mouth feed on the sugars that are found in these foods and drinks. The bacteria create acids that can break down the hard, outer layer of their teeth, called enamel.
read moreWhat is the focus of your child’s beautiful SMILE? Strong, healthy teeth! Baby teeth-also called primary teeth-are important in the growth and development of a child. Baby teeth can help your child chew foods and speak. They also hold space in the jaws for adult teeth that are growing under the gums. Babies are born
read moreWhen you are grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw, it’s called bruxism (BRUCKS-is-im). Grinding is when you slide your teeth back and forth over each other. Clenching means you tightly hold your top and bottom teeth together. Bruxism is something that children and adults of any age may do. Many people with bruxism wake themselves up during the
read moreFluoride: Nature’s Cavity Fighter Cavities that are not treated can cause pain, loss of teeth, and spread of infection. The good news is you can prevent most cavities with good dental care and fluoride. What Is Fluoride? Why Is it Important? Fluoride (FLOOR-eyed) is a natural mineral in all water sources — even oceans and
read moreWhy do I need to clean between my teeth? Even if you brush twice a day, there are places your toothbrush bristles can’t reach. There are several ways to clean between your teeth and flossing is the most common. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and under the gum line. Your dentist
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