Smiling Tips

Explore answers to common questions and learn helpful tips on maintaining healthy smiles for children, from early care to long-term habits.

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Start brushing as soon as your baby’s first tooth appears, usually around 6 months. Use a damp washcloth, gauze or a soft toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste. Myth debunked: Some think babies don’t need to brush because they only have a few teeth, but early care prevents future cavities.

Limiting sugary drinks is essential. Water or milk is the best choice, and sugary drinks should be consumed in moderation. Myth debunked: Many believe fruit juice is healthy for kids, but it can contribute to cavities if consumed frequently.

Your child should visit the dentist every 6 months, starting at age 1 or as soon as their first tooth appears. Myth debunked: Some think dental visits can wait until the child is older, but early visits can teach parents about oral hygiene and habits and catch problems before they develop.

Children typically lose their first teeth between ages 6-7, but it’s normal for this to vary. Myth debunked: It’s a misconception that all children lose their teeth at the same time; each child’s development is different.

Yes, prolonged thumb sucking can affect the alignment of the teeth and the roof of the mouth. Myth debunked: Some believe thumb sucking is harmless, but if it persists past age 4, it can cause dental problems.

Absolutely! Baby teeth play a key role in speech development, eating, and guiding adult teeth into place. Myth debunked: Many think baby teeth aren’t important because they fall out, but they are crucial for long-term oral health.

Yes, fluoride strengthen’s the outer layer of the teeth and helps prevent cavities. For children under 3, use a small smear, and for older children, a pea-sized amount. Myth debunked: Some think fluoride is harmful, but when used correctly, it’s safe and helps strengthen teeth.
Yes, dental sealants are a protective coating that is placed on the biting surface of the teeth and a great preventive measure to protect the chewing surfaces of molars from cavities. Myth debunked: Some parents think sealants are unnecessary, but they can reduce the risk of decay in hard-to-reach areas.

Yes, cavities can still occur due to diet, genetics, and the frequency of brushing. It’s important to also floss and visit the dentist regularly. Myth debunked: Some believe brushing alone is enough, but proper dental care includes brushing, flossing, and professional check-ups.

It’s okay for infants to use a pacifier, and better than finger sucking, as it does less damage to the developing bite but prolonged use can affect teeth alignment. Try to wean off the pacifier by age 2. Myth debunked: Some think pacifiers are always harmful, but they’re fine for babies when used appropriately.
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Adamnabus Mobile Clinic

We bring essential dental prevention and care to children in Armenia’s communities, ensuring every child has access to a healthy smile. With mobility and expertise, we reach those in need, one community at a time.