When it comes to your child’s health, advice is everywhere—especially online—but not all of it is accurate. As a pediatric dental provider, we often hear many well-intentioned but mistaken ideas from parents about how to care for their children’s teeth.
Let us set the record straight by debunking some of the most common myths about children’s oral health so you can feel confident that you are doing what’s best for your child’s smile.
Myth #1: “Baby Teeth Don’t Matter…They Just Fall Out Anyway.”
The Truth:
Baby teeth (also called primary teeth) are very important. They help your child chew and speak properly, and they serve as natural space holders for permanent teeth. Losing baby teeth too early due to decay can lead to crowding, misalignment, or impacted adult teeth.
Cavities in baby teeth can also cause pain, infections, and problems with eating or sleeping, all of which can affect a child’s development. Healthy baby teeth means a healthy foundation for lifelong dental health.
Myth #2: “Kids Don’t Need to Floss.”
The Truth:
If your child has teeth that touch, flossing is necessary. Brushing alone cannot reach the plaque and food particles between teeth. Regular flossing helps prevent cavities between molars and sets the foundation for healthy oral habits that last a lifetime.
Start flossing your child’s teeth as soon as they have two teeth that touch, and help them floss daily until they are old enough to do it on their own (usually around age 8–10).
Myth #3: “Fruit Snacks and Juice Are Healthy Snacks.”
The Truth:
While fruit snacks might seem healthy, they are often sticky, sugary, and highly processed—a perfect recipe for cavities. Juice, even 100% fruit juice, is also high in natural sugars and acids that can erode enamel over time.
Stick to whole fruits and limit juice to mealtimes, offering water as the go-to drink between meals. If your child has a sweet treat, brushing afterward—or at least rinsing with water—can help reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Myth #4: “Cavities Are Only Caused by Sugar.”
The Truth:
Sugar plays a big role in cavities, but it is not the only factor. Cavities are caused by bacteria in the mouth that feed on sugars and starches, producing acids that attack the tooth enamel. Even foods like crackers, chips, and bread can contribute to decay.
That’s why good oral hygiene, regular brushing and flossing, and routine dental visits are essential, no matter what your child eats.
Myth #5: “If My Child Has No Pain, There’s No Problem.”
The Truth:
Many dental issues, like early cavities, enamel defects, or bite problems, do not cause pain until they become more severe. Waiting for symptoms can mean waiting too long. Regular dental checkups allow your child’s dentist to catch problems early, often before they are visible or painful.
Preventive care not only protects your child’s smile but also reduces the likelihood of more extensive and costly treatment over time.
Myth #6: “Thumb-Sucking Is Harmless Until Age Six or Seven.”
The Truth:
Occasional thumb-sucking is normal for toddlers, but if the habit continues past age three or becomes forceful, it can lead to misaligned teeth, open bites, or changes to the roof of the mouth. It is important to address the habit gently yet proactively to help prevent long-term dental issues.
Myth #7: “Dental X-rays Aren’t Safe for Kids.”
The Truth:
Modern dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation, and pediatric dentists follow strict safety protocols. X-rays are essential for identifying hidden problems, such as cavities between teeth, developing permanent teeth, or jaw alignment concerns.
When used appropriately, the benefits of dental X-rays far outweigh the minimal risks.
Have Questions? We can help.
Being a parent means navigating a lot of information—and sometimes misinformation. At Tebo Dental, we are committed to providing accurate, honest, and helpful guidance for your child’s oral health. Don’t let common myths stand in the way of a healthy smile.
Have questions or want to schedule your child’s next visit? We are here to support you every step of the way.
