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early dental health, continued ...Published: March, 2010

RULE OF THUMB
Thumb sucking is a natural reflex that begins in the womb.
   
It’s comforting and relaxing, and may induce sleep more quickly. However, after age 5, it should be discouraged. It can interfere with mouth development and teeth alignment, and adversely affect the roof of the mouth.
   
Try regular feeding and sleeping schedules, quality interaction with Mom and Dad, a variety of safe and interesting toys, and a happy and stimulating day-care environment. Finally, plan daily activities and routines to reduce stress and boredom. 
   
By ensuring that your 5-year-old understands that you want him to practice self-control and quit because it’s best for him, he’ll gain a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence – and that’s something to smile about.


GOOD ORAL HEALTH: START OUT RIGHT!
The earlier, the better when teaching your children good dental habits. Here are a few things every parent should know about protecting their children’s oral health:

> Dental care should start early. Tooth decay in babies can lead to pain, infection, malnutrition and much more.
 > Parents should begin brushing their children’s teeth as soon as the first tooth arrives.
> Regular checkups help identify problems early and lower costs. They also help parents and dentists begin to plan for crowded, missing and crooked teeth.
> Parents should check to see if their employer provides dental insurance. Other options include voluntary dental insurance (paid by the employees at a lower group rate), individual dental policies and state-funded or local community health programs.

Source: Dr. Gene Sherman, senior vice president at AlwaysCare Benefits (a Starmount Life Insurance Co.), worked for more than 17 years as a dentist in private practice.