Why Don't We Have Shark Teeth?

Have you ever wondered why sharks have several rows of teeth and we have only one? Neither have I, but scientists have. Genetic researchers have isolated a gene in mice that controls tooth development and placement. When they "turned off" the gene, the mice developed extra teeth.

In humans this could provide a weapon against abnormal teeth development and cleft palate, which occurs in 1 in 700 live births.  Also, the potential to grow new teeth in adults could add an additional choice to dentures or dental implants.

Tonight when you pick up your toothbrush, be happy you don't have mouse or shark teeth. Also, they don't have the ability to call 1-800-DENTIST to find a great dentist.

Children and Dentistry

I learned recently that the number one reason a child is brought to the emergency room is for a dental problem.  What's worse, many times that child has never been to a dentist.  It is critical to a child's overall health to see a dentist starting as early as three years old, or younger.

Many people believe that since the first set of teeth will fall out anyway, there is no reason to see a dentist.  This is absolutely not true.  If a child's baby teeth are not healthy, then the second set of teeth will not come in properly and problems with enamel density and other issues will plague the child for the rest of his life.

The state of California now mandates that all children must see a dentist before entering the first grade.  I hope all states adopt this law, but more importantly I hope parents start taking their children at a younger age.  Imagine being a child with a toothache in school, trying to learn.  I can barely tie my shoes when I have tooth pain.

Keeping kids healthy means keeping their mouth and their teeth healthy.  Find a dentist that makes your child feel comfortable, so that they can begin a life of proper dental care.  Like most things, starting early is the key.  

Stem Cells in Baby Teeth

Stem cell research is a hot button these days. What are we willing to do to possibly cure diseases and save lives? This question has spawned much debate and argument.

Parents who want to prepare for the long-term possibilities have some options. There are companies that will store a baby's umbilical cord blood in case it is needed later in life for stem cells to battle a life-threatening illness.

Now, there are also companies that will store your child's baby teeth for possible future stem-cell use (with treatments that have yet to be developed).   In both cases there are initial fees and then continuing storage fees. 

I thought this might be an interesting fact for parents to know.  The next time you are there, ask if your dentist has heard of it. If you don't have a dentist yet, well, you know...

Brushing Issues? Try Tooth Tissues

We all know the importance of proper tooth brushing between visits to the dentist. I have also written previously about the importance of dental care for babies and about the dental benefits of xylitol.

Many parents will tell you that it is a challenge to brush a baby's teeth.  There are struggles with the toothbrush, concerns about when to start using toothpaste and, also, which trick to use to try to make brushing a successful experience. 

I recently found out about a product designed to help with dental hygiene when brushing is an issue (or before the baby even has any teeth).  They are called Tooth Tissues. They were developed by two dentists who are also parents. The tissues contain xylitol and they are free of fluoride and sugar. They are also good to help adults get a clean mouth when brushing is a challenge.

Of course, any oral hygiene product should be used in addition to your regular visits to the dentist. You didn't think I'd forget that part, did you?

Dental Care for Babies - Don't Neglect It

We've talked about dental implants, veneers and various other ways to enhance the adult smile. Let's not forget the other end of the spectrum: sound oral hygiene should start when we are babies. Ignorance about this fact can explain why, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most common chronic disease among children aged 5 to 17 is tooth decay. 

Dentists suggest gently brushing baby's gums even before teeth erupt. Use a soft cloth or gauze after each meal. This gets the child used to it so he will be accustomed to brushing when that first tooth finally makes an appearance. Flossing should begin as soon as teeth erupt next to each other. Your child should be encouraged to brush and floss on her own as soon as she is able.

Children's teeth should also be brushed after they are given medicine, due to the high acid content contained in many medicines for children. I've heard people refer to "baby teeth" as being less important than the "permanent teeth" that ultimately replace them.  Healthy teeth are important to a child's complete health and development.  Dental sealants and fluoride can also help.

As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Taking care of your teeth from the very beginning can prevent the need for those implants in adulthood.  Go to the dentist.