South OC Pediatric Dentistry Fact: Back to School Is a Great Time to Start Kids on a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

Online, August 23, 2012 (Newswire.com) - With the school season starting, it is a good time to remember the importance of good oral health for your children. Actress Jennie Garth, from the hit '90s show "Beverly Hills 90210", recently appeared on Fox News in an effort to raise awareness about the importance of getting children into good oral hygiene habits at a young age, and she stressed the importance of introducing them to the dentist early, as young as 2 years old.

At this time of year, the dentists at South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics would like to take the time to remind parents that oral health in children is an important aspect that is often overlooked. Good oral health practices, if started at a young age, will allow children to grow up with good habits including brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist.

The American Dental Association Recommends:

•Begin cleaning the baby's mouth during the first few days after birth by wiping the gums with a clean, moist gauze pad or washcloth. As soon as teeth appear, decay can occur.

•When a child's teeth begin to come in, brush them gently with a child-size toothbrush and water. A baby's front four teeth usually push through the gums at about 6 months of age, although some children don't have their first tooth until 12 or 14 months.

•For children older than 2, brush their teeth with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Be sure they spit out the toothpaste. (Ask your child's dentist or physician if you are considering using fluoride toothpaste before age 2.)

•Until comfortable that a child can brush on his or her own, continue to brush your child's teeth twice a day with a child-size toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. When your child has two teeth that touch, you should begin flossing their teeth daily.

Located in Mission Viejo, CA, South OC Pediatric Dentistry takes children's oral health seriously and understands that children are apprehensive about coming to the dentist. If parents are having trouble getting their children to brush regularly, South OC can set up an appointment with the child and parent to discuss some good habits that can be implemented into the child's daily routine.

South OC's office was designed to create a fun-loving and safe environment where children will feel comfortable before, during, and after their appointment.

The pediatric dental clinic provides areas where kids can stimulate their imagination:

•great selection of kid's books

•play area with kids toys

•play the latest video games

•watch TV and watch child-friendly movies

During their dental examination, children are treated to a relaxing and entertaining atmosphere as they watch their favorite movie on televisions located above the treatment chairs. The staff at South OC also provide fun contests and patient rewards to add to the enjoyment of the overall pediatric experience. The pediatric dentists' goal is to provide children with an exciting and memorable experience each time they visit.

"We have been going to South OC Dentistry since 1998 when my daughter was 3. She is 16 now and I also have a 3 year old son who goes to South OC Dentistry. We have NEVER had a bad experience. The staff are always kind, considerate, patient, and amazing with the children. We have seen Dr. John, Dr. Wu, and Dr. Lovinger and all were amazing. My children both look forward to going to the dentist!" - J. Williams

If you would like more information about getting children started with taking care of their oral health, or to set up an interview with one of the dentists in Mission Viejo, please visit the South OC website or call at 949-581-5800.