Dental Facts for Kids

Visiting the dentist regularly helps your child develop good oral and dental hygiene for the future. Kids who aren't afforded routine dental care often fall into the 25 percent of kids who have 80 percent of the cavities, warns the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Fortunately you have several kid-friendly facts you can use to remind your child about the importance of good dental care.

A Different Tongue for Everyone

• Like fingerprints and snowflakes, everyone has a uniquely patterned tongue created by different configurations of taste buds. Look in the mirror with your child at his tongue and point out small bumps responsible for tasting his food. Mention that brushing your tongue gets rid of bacteria and germs that make breath smelly while he is examining his tongue.

Flossing

• The first commercial dental floss sold in 1892 was made of silk. Children can learn to floss using a pre-threaded floss device rather than struggling to wrap it around their fingers. Show your child all the crevasses in his teeth and how flossing helps get rid of food and germs from all the places her toothbrush can't reach.

Toothbrushes

• The average modern toothbrush contains over 2,500 bristles. The first toothbrush was invented in China in 1498 by shortening boar hairs and attaching them to the back of a bone stick. Remind your child that brushing his teeth twice a day, for at least three minutes, keeps the cavities away. The brushing also helps to keep his teeth white, shiny and smelling fresh.

Chewing Gum

• American children spend close to $1 billion each year in chewing gum. Unless it's sugar free, chewing gum can cause cavities just like candy. People who drink three or more sugary drinks, including juice, each day experience 62 percent more tooth decay. Take a moment to tell your child why soda, candy and juice are bad for his teeth and should be reserved for special occasions.