Teeth of a Tender Age: Strategies for Protecting Kids’ Oral Health

More than 25% of kids have caries by age 5, so preventive care should start in infancy. This guide from pediatric dentist Ling Zhan, DDS, PhD, discusses causes of tooth decay and modifiable risk factors to improve the oral microbiome. Zhan explains why filling cavities can’t be the only tactic in dental care and offers tips on what to do about carb-heavy snacking, why parents might want to chew gum, and how to whip up a safe mouthwash for children.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify early signs of dental caries
• Assess and identify the caries risk of infants and children
• Provide professional consultation on oral health care for children