Attention students, teachers and parents…April is Oral Health Month!

Dr. Sarah

During the month of April the dental community encourages discussions about oral health, including how to take care of our teeth and the importance of dental care.

For the past 5 years Dr. Sarah from St. Vital Dental Centre has visited schools in the St. Vital area of Winnipeg to present to over 1,500+ K-6 students about how to keep their smiles healthy. We are excited for Oral Health Month 2025. Dr. Sarah is currently scheduled to present to over 1,000 students this April!

These are some of the common questions teachers, parents and students have asked during our previous presentations:

Answers to Common Questions Students have about their Oral Health

A child learning to brush their teeth by watching themselves in the mirror

What foods are good or bad for my teeth?

Foods high in sugars, carbohydrates and acidic pH levels are not good for our teeth. Examples include candy, pop, energy drinks, lemons and crackers. Foods that are good for our body and teeth include things that are low in sugars and have basic pH levels like cheese and milk (however, do not drink milk at bedtime without brushing your teeth after!).

When will I loose my first baby tooth?

Most kids lose their first baby tooth (also known as primary teeth) between 5 and 7 years old. There is of course variability to this, with some kids losing theirs before or after this age. Kids lose their first baby tooth when their first adult is erupting and push the baby tooth out to make room for the adult tooth. Usually the front upper or lower primary (baby) incisor is lost first. 

The first adult molars can be seen erupting at the back of the mouth between the ages of 5 and 7. It is important to remember to reach back and brush these adult molar teeth!

Do the needles you give for numbing hurt?

Some kids describe it as feeling like a small poke in their gums. There are things that we do as dentists to make receiving local anesthetic more comfortable. For example, for children we often rub a topical gel over the site where the needle needs to be inserted to temporarily numb the surface layer of the gums. We also keep local anesthetic at room temperature and administer it slowly, methods proven to reduce discomfort. Dr. Terry and I regularly treat children at St. Vital Dental Centre, and implement these techniques to make freezing and treatment a positive experience.

Answers to Common Teacher Questions about Oral Health

Does drinking coffee and tea affect my teeth?

Yes, drinking coffee and tea can affect our teeth. Drinking coffee or tea can cause stains to build up on teeth that might be difficult to remove with at home toothbrushing alone. 

In addition, if drank slowly, coffee/tea may increase risk of cavities in one of two ways:

1. Coffee is acidic. Acidic beverages can cause demineralization of the outer enamel layer of our teeth, increasing the risk of developing cavities.

2. If sugar and/or milk are added, these sugars can coat the teeth. Sugar is food for bacteria and when bacteria eat these sugars they create acid, thus demineralizing teeth.

If you want to reduce your risk of developing cavities while enjoying your favourite coffee or tea, we recommend drinking it black and in one sitting instead of sipping throughout the day. These principles are also true about pop and energy drinks! 

How do I know if I have a cavity?

When cavities are small and only affect the enamel (i.e. the outer layer of our teeth) you may not feel them. This is because enamel has no nerve endings. The best time to treat a cavity is when it’s small, and only affects a tooth’s enamel. This is why it is very important to schedule a dental check-up and cleaning every 6 months. At these checkups, dentists will check for small cavities that could be starting. X-rays can help us diagnose small cavities that may not be easily seen on an exam because they are forming in between your teeth. 

If left untreated, small cavities can grow bigger and into the next layer of the tooth called dentin. Once a cavity is in the dentin, your tooth may become sensitive to hot or cold. Most cavities at this stage can still be treated with a filling.

If left untreated, a cavity can reach the nerve of the tooth called the pulp. At this stage people will usually have tooth sensitivity, pain and possible swelling of the gums around the tooth with the cavity. 

What is the best way to brush my teeth?

Using an electric toothbrush for two minutes twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste is the best way to brush our teeth. Using a manual toothbrush has been shown to potentially cause more gum recession when compared to an electric pressure sensing toothbrush. It is best to NOT rinse with water after brushing so the ingredients in the toothpaste can work to its fullest potential to fight cavities, sensitivity and gum disease. It is best to brush your teeth before breakfast or to wait 30 minutes after eating a meal. This is because when we eat our mouth becomes slightly acidic which can cause the enamel to become softer. If teeth are brushed vigorously during this window it can lead to enamel wear.

Answers to Common Questions from Parents about their Children's Oral Health

A child getting their teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist at St. Vital Dental Centre

When should I schedule my child's first check up to see the dentist?

It is best to schedule your child's first check up by their first birthday or within 6 months of their first tooth erupting. Coming in for routine appointments at a young age will allow the dentist to check for cavities, observe how the teeth and jaws are developing, promote healthy habits at a young age, and encourage a positive and familiar experience.

Dr. Terry and I love seeing your kids for their first check-up, developing a relationship with them and seeing them grow! We have lots of patients who first attended St. Vital Dental Centre as infants or children who are now adults and we see their kids!

When should I start brushing my child's teeth?

Start brushing your child’s teeth once the first tooth erupts. You can use less than a pea sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste with a very soft bristle brush twice a day. It is best to try and continue this routine with your child until they have the manual dexterity to brush their teeth on their own so they can form good habits.

How can I ease teething pain for my infant or child?

Teething can be an uncomfortable and painful experience. To ease the pain you can gently rub the gums of your infant or child with a chilled cloth or gauze. A chilled teething ring may also help. Sometimes children can present with a fever when teething. If needed, infant or children's acetaminophen can be given, though not for a prolonged period of time. If swelling is present or the pain persists it is best to visit your dentist for an exam to ensure there isn’t anything concerning going on.  

Questions are always welcome in our office and we hope you will contact us soon at 204-233-5164 or info@stvitaldental.ca to discuss any questions or concerns you have.