What is the Most Common Chronic Condition Among Children?

By Jill Feilmeier on January 16, 2012 in Kid's Health

Did you know that childhood dental disease is the most common chronic condition among children? That's right; dental disease in kids is five times more common than childhood asthma. But wait, that's not the worst part. This is: Dental disease is nearly 100% preventable. So…we're giving our children a disease can be prevented. What's wrong with this situation?

As baby's caregiver, you are responsible for your child's oral health. There are simple steps you can take to make sure your child remains cavity-free.

• Before baby has teeth: Clean gums with a soft cloth.
• When teeth appear: brush teeth with a small, soft toothbrush without toothpaste and clean gums with a soft cloth.
• At age one: Baby should see a dentist by his or her first birthday
• At age two: Brush teeth with a pea-sized drop of fluoridated toothpaste. Wipe teeth when finished until child can rinse and spit.

For more information on keeping your child’s smile healthy, download our brochure on children’s oral health.

Resources: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/childrens-dental-health