February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, a time dedicated to promoting the importance of oral health for children and families. Dr. Natalie Stewart, D.D.S., dentist and owner of Mason Elite Dentistry, is committed to creating a practice where patients as young as a few days old can be set up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Children face unique dental challenges that require early care. Poor brushing habits, high consumption of sugary snacks and drinks and improper use of bottles or sippy cups can all contribute to early tooth decay.
“Kids' enamel is incredibly thin and less resilient than adult enamel. Dental cavities are the number one disease in childhood,” shares Dr. Stewart.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, parents should begin cleaning their child’s gums using a soft, damp cloth before the first tooth emerges. Once teeth start to appear, switching to a baby toothbrush with toothpaste is essential. Regular dental visits should begin by the child’s first birthday. Dentist appointments should ideally continue twice a year, but at least once a year with bitewing X-rays.
Beyond cavities, Dr. Stewart emphasizes the importance of addressing conditions like tongue ties and palate development. Tongue ties occur when the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight. This condition can lead to a range of issues, including difficulty breastfeeding in infancy, speech impediments and challenges with maintaining proper oral hygiene.
Palate development also plays a significant role in oral health and overall well-being. A narrow or improperly developed palate (roof of the mouth) can lead to crowded teeth, bite misalignment, and even breathing difficulties, such as sleep apnea. Dr. Stewart explains that orthodontic devices like palate expanders gently widen the upper jaw over time, creating more space for permanent teeth and improving oral and airway health. Early interventions, between ages 7 and 10, can significantly reduce the need for more complex orthodontic treatments later.
For many, a trip to the dentist can feel intimidating. Dr. Stewart’s team at Mason Elite Dentistry helps children feel at ease by explaining their plan, showing most of the tools and talking the child through the process. Creating a calm, enjoyable environment helps build trust so that going to the dentist becomes a normal and easy part of life.
This month, families can take the opportunity to focus on dental health by incorporating fun and educational activities into their routines. Parents can use brushing charts or create a reward system to encourage consistent oral hygiene. Reading books about visiting the dentist, playing songs during brushing time or turning the experience into a playful game can also help children build positive habits. For example, using a timer or a smartphone app can make brushing for the recommended two minutes more engaging.
Dr. Stewart’s practice is also sensitive to families who prefer a holistic approach to dental care. While fluoride is a debated topic, her practice’s priority is to make sure that going to the dentist is accessible to all families. So, her practice has fluoride-free options.
“I see families whose kids get no fluoride, and I see families who are nervous that fluoride may be taken out of the water. I would recommend that until their child can reliably spit out their toothpaste, to give them fluoride-free toothpaste,” says Dr. Stewart.
Dr. Stewart encourages parents to view oral health as an integral part of their child’s overall well-being. Teaching children the importance of oral hygiene early not only helps prevent problems but also builds confidence in their smiles for years to come. By prioritizing dental health, parents can help their children develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.
For more tips and resources, visit MasonEliteDentistry.com.
“Kid’s enamel is incredibly thin and less resilient than adult enamel. Dental cavities are the number one disease in childhood,”