The kids had dentist appointments this morning--ya know, the 6 month cleaning and check-up. I'd like to report that there were no cavities, but I can't. And this isn't the first time I can't say that. I always hesitate to mention that my kids have cavities, because I always feel judged. "My kids don't have cavities, but then, they don't drink soda" as their child downs their second juice box in half an hour. Or "Really? I am 40 and still don't have cavities! But I brush my teeth really well." These are actual statements I have heard when people find out my kids have cavities.
Yep, my kids don't drink soda either, they get a glass of juice with breakfast, and maybe when they have a cold they get a little more. Sugary snacks? not really. Brush their teeth? Yep, we still brush their teeth for them (on the dentist's recommendation, apparently the dexterity to do such things on their own isn't present for another few years). Floss? Yep, daily.
They just have cavity prone teeth. I don't know where it comes from (and please, don't guilt me about my nutrition during pregnancy--that is long past, I can't go back in time and fix that, if that even is what the problem is!) What I do know is that I feel bad enough. I don't need anyone adding to my mother's guilt.
And I am grateful. We live an a place where we have the ability to get the teeth repaired. We have dental insurance that covers some of the cost. Our dentist only does white fillings, so there is no way to tell that the kids have had fillings--unless you look closely...
I'm not looking for an answer to why. I don't need any judgment. I just have to get my kids through the appointments. Maybe a unit on dental health is in our future...
2 comments:
Seems silly to judge someone based on their teeth! My parents both have had so much work done, and I had many cavities throughout childhood, as well as the threat of a root canal (never happened). My kids teeth seemed to be faring better than mine...until my oldest needed braces because her last adult tooth decided to find its own direction. :o)
One suggestion that worked for me, but most kids won't do it: Stop using toothpaste and switch to dipping the brush in plain old baking soda. It tastes awful, but it really has made a difference for my old teeth. Maybe it helps if your saliva is more acidic? I don't know, but I never did need that root canal...
Peace and Laughter!
Some people just are cavity prone. I am one of those such people.
My heart goes out to you and the kids. I completely can relate to have fillings as a child.
I have deep ridges in my teeth, have been told by multiple dentists I am just prone to cavities, lovely, is what I always think.
Don't be hard on yourself, I think it is genetics:)
Post a Comment