Q: My child’s breath smells… funky. Is it just hygiene? Or something more?

A: Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria. These odor-producing bacteria like to hide in: 

• Dental plaque 
• On the tongue 
• Under the gums 
• In the tonsils 

The best fix? Good brushing, tongue cleaning, and flossing. If bad breath sticks around, it may be time to check for hidden issues like post nasal drip or tonsil stones.

Q: Do teeth-whitening products weaken enamel? 

A: No, whitening does not weaken enamel, but it can cause sensitivity or gum irritation if not used properly. Always make sure to follow the directions and avoid overuse. Especially with kids and teens! 

Q: Is chewing gum good or bad for teeth? 

A: It depends on the type: 

• Pros: 
  
  • Sugar-free gum with xylitol can help prevent cavities 
  • It boosts saliva, which helps wash away bacteria 
• Cons: 
  
  • Gum with sugar feeds cavity-causing bacteria 
  • Excessive chewing can lead to jaw soreness or tightness 

Q: Why do wisdom teeth usually need to be removed? 

A: Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, often don’t have enough room to grow in properly. This can lead to: 

• Pain
• Infection
• Damage to nearby teeth 
• Cysts or crowding 

Removing them early can prevent these problems.

Q: Can thumb sucking really cause crooked teeth? 

A: Yes, especially if it continues beyond toddler years. Long-term thumb sucking can: 

• Push front teeth forward 
• Narrow the upper jaw 
• Affect bite alignment 

If you’re concerned, a pediatric dentist can help create a plan to break the habit.

Q: I hate flossing. Do water flossers actually work?

A: Water flossers are helpful, especially for removing food debris. But, they’re not a full replacement for traditional floss. For a truly clean space between the teeth, flossing is still the gold standard!

Q: Myth or fact - If a tooth is knocked out, put it in milk? 

A: Fact! But, there’s a better first step: 

1. Try to gently place the tooth back in the socket if possible 
2. If not, place it in the mouth (between the cheek and gums) 
3. If that’s not safe, milk is the next best option 

Avoid water, and never put the tooth to dry out. Get to a dentist right away, time is critical!

Q: How often should we replace toothbrushes? 

A: Replace your child’s toothbrush when the bristles look worn or frayed. Worn bristles don’t clean well and can even irritate gums. For most kids, this means switching brushes every 2-3 months or sooner if they’ve had a cold.

Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help! 

Our team at All Kids Dental Pediatrics & Orthodontics is always happy to answer your questions and help your child build healthy dental habits. We serve families in Glenwood Springs, Rifle, and Eagle, Colorado, with a gentle and fun approach to care. 

Call today to schedule a visit (970) 928-9500 or visit our website to schedule online, and let’s work together to keep those growing smiles strong and healthy for life!