If you have a child, you have seen them put countless random things in their mouth. Early in life, babies and toddlers learn about the world in part using their mouth, but eventually this tendency subsides. However, even long after this stage comes and goes, kids can continue to put certain objects in their mouth that don’t belong there and could cause a dental emergency. In fact, if their pediatric dentist knew, they may wince! What are the things your child shouldn’t put in their mouth? Read on to find out.
Pens or Pencils
Writing utensils are fine to fidget with hands, but putting them in the mouth, even for a short time, can harm the smile. First of all, pens and pencils tend to have a lot of bacteria on them, introducing potential infection. Secondly, chewing on hard objects puts excessive pressure on your child’s teeth, which could cause cracks or fractures. It’s best to keep pens and pencils out of your child’s mouth and in their hands.
Fingernails
Does your child chew their fingernails as a nervous habit? The dentist would strongly recommend that they stop doing it. Not only can biting nails affect how your child’s hands look, but it can also have a devastating impact on their teeth. Their front teeth are strong enough to bite through food, but they were not designed to cut through nails. As a result, they may wear down faster than they would otherwise. Plus, bacteria from little hands—which have touched who knows what—can enter your child’s mouth—yuck!
If your child struggles with stress or anxiety, try to find other ways to cope, such as coloring or drawing, yoga, meditation, controlled breathing, and the like.
Bottle Caps
Tooth enamel may be the strongest material in the body, but it shouldn’t be used to open soda bottles. Teeth can crack or chip when bottle caps, whether metal or plastic, enter the mouth. If your child is having trouble opening a bottle, offer to help or try other measures that don’t involve their teeth.
Someone Else’s Toothbrush
If your child forgets their toothbrush at a sleepover or a trip out of town, they may be tempted to share with someone else. However, this option puts both parties’ health at risk as bacteria can spread and cause cavities or gum infections. Before your child leaves for an overnight stay, be sure to pack their own toothbrush to avoid this situation.
Jewelry
Whether your child is simply playing with their jewelry or struggling with a necklace or bracelet latch, jewelry doesn’t belong in the mouth. It could bring in germs that could get them sick or lead to an oral infection. Offer to help them put on their jewelry, and gently remind them to keep it out where it is supposed to be: on their neck, wrist, or fingers.
As your child gets older, they need to keep these things out of their mouth to minimize the risk to their oral and overall health. By developing healthy habits, they can enjoy a strong brilliant smile, which is adorable at any age!
About the Practice
At Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Patrick Bowman and Dr. Samantha Gardner take a preventive approach to treating young patients. As board-certified pediatric dentists, they specialize in working with infants, toddlers, children, and teens on improving their oral health habits. If you have questions about how to help your child care for their smile, you can schedule an appointment at our Denver practice online or call us at 720-647-6310.