Welcome back to Save Your Money, Save Your Teeth, the podcast where we empower you to make smarter dental decisions.
In today’s episode, number 91, Eon Engelbrecht and Dr Clifford Yudelman tackle the 'Independence Years'—ages 3 to 6.
This is the stage where your toddler wants to do everything themselves, but are they ready to brush alone? We discuss the 'shoelace test,' the truth about snacks, and why preserving baby teeth now is the cheapest way to ensure a perfect adult smile later."
10 Key Questions & Answers
Why are baby teeth important if they just fall out anyway? Baby teeth act as space maintainers for adult teeth. Losing them too early to decay can cause crowding and the need for orthodontics later. They are also crucial for speech development, proper chewing, and nutrition.
Should I let my 3-6 year old brush their own teeth? Only with supervision. Children under age 7 or 8 generally lack the manual dexterity to clean effectively. A good rule of thumb: if they can’t tie their own shoelaces, they can’t brush their teeth properly yet.
What is the "knee-to-knee" brushing technique? It is a position where two adults sit knee-to-knee with the child lying on their laps, looking up. This allows for clear visibility and control without force, making brushing safer and less stressful.
At what age should thumb sucking or dummy use stop? Ideally between ages 2 and 4. If the habit persists beyond age 4, it can cause bite changes (like an open bite) or narrow the upper jaw, leading to speech issues and the need for orthodontics.
What should I do if my toddler falls and bumps a tooth? Stay calm and check for bleeding. Unlike adult teeth, do not try to reposition a displaced baby tooth yourself, as you might damage the permanent tooth developing underneath. See a dentist or visit the Red Cross Children's Hospital immediately.
Do I really need to floss baby teeth? Yes, as soon as the teeth touch. Cavities often form in the tight spaces between baby molars where a toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing once a day prevents these hidden cavities.
What are the best snacks to prevent cavities? Low-sugar options that stimulate saliva, such as cheese, nuts, yoghurt, and raw vegetables (carrots, cucumber). Avoid sticky snacks like dried fruit or gummy vitamins, which cling to teeth.
How can I help my child avoid dental anxiety? Focus on familiarity. Avoid scary words like "needle" or "hurt." Start with non-invasive "happy visits" where they just ride in the chair and count teeth to build trust before any treatment is needed.
Are dental sealants necessary for baby molars? Not always. While they can reduce decay by 80% in deep grooves, Dr Yudelman suggests they may be an unnecessary expense for children with good hygiene and low cavity risk. They are most beneficial for children with a history of decay or deep molar grooves.
What is a pulpotomy? It is essentially a "baby root canal." It involves removing only the infected part of the nerve to save the tooth, rather than extracting it. Saving the tooth maintains space for the adult tooth and prevents future orthodontic problems.
Resources
- OptiSmile Website: optismile.co.za
- Emergency Care: Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital (Cape Town)
- Book Mentioned: David Decides (regarding thumb sucking)
Contact the Best dentist in Cape Town
Book your next Dental Checkup with OptiSmile
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Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast, "Save Your Money Save Your Teeth" on Medical Mondays, is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as dental or medical advice. The insights and opinions expressed by Dr. Clifford Yudelman and any guests are designed to foster a better understanding of dental health, preventive measures, and general well-being, but should not be interpreted as professional dental or medical recommendations. Dr. Clifford Yudelman does not diagnose, treat, or offer prevention strategies for any health conditions directly through this podcast. This platform is not a substitute for the personalized care and advice provided by a licensed dental or healthcare professional. We strongly encourage our listeners to consult with their own dental care providers to address individual dental health needs and concerns. The information shared here aims to empower listeners with knowledge about dental health but must not be used as a basis for making health-related decisions without professional guidance. Your dental care provider is the best source of advice about your dental and overall health. Please always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified health professionals regarding any questions or concerns about your dental health.
