Dental Myths Busted: 5 Things Parents Get Wrong About Kids’ Teeth

As parents, we do everything we can to keep our kids healthy—and that includes their smiles! But when it comes to children’s dental care, there’s a surprising amount of outdated advice and persistent myths floating around.

At Dr. Sugar Kids Dentistry in Paradise Valley, AZ, we’re here to set the record straight. Let’s bust some of the most common dental myths we hear from well-meaning parents every day.

Myth #1: “Baby teeth don’t matter—they’re just going to fall out anyway.”

Busted!
Yes, baby teeth are temporary—but they play a huge role in your child’s oral development. They help with chewing, speaking, and holding space for the adult teeth underneath. If a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay, it can lead to crowding or misalignment issues later on.

Pro tip: Start dental visits by age one, and treat baby teeth with the same care as adult teeth!

Myth #2: “Kids don’t need to floss.”

Busted!
Even if their teeth are tiny, kids still get plaque and food stuck between them—especially as more teeth come in. Flossing helps prevent cavities between the teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach.

Floss fun: Try flossers in fun colors or make it a game with music to build the habit early!

Myth #3: “Sugar is the only thing that causes cavities.”

Busted!
Sugar gets most of the blame (and rightfully so), but it's not the only culprit. Starchy snacks like crackers and chips also break down into sugars and stick to teeth. And poor brushing habits, dry mouth, and even some medications can increase cavity risk.

Smile tip: Focus on a balanced diet, proper brushing twice a day, and regular dental checkups.

Myth #4: “Fluoride is dangerous for kids.”

Busted!
When used properly, fluoride is completely safe and incredibly effective in preventing cavities. It helps strengthen enamel and even reverses early signs of tooth decay. Most kids benefit from fluoride toothpaste and professional fluoride treatments.

Ask us: At Dr. Sugar Kids Dentistry, we’ll help you find the right fluoride option for your child’s age and needs.

Myth #5: “If my child isn’t complaining, there’s no dental problem.”

Busted!
Many dental issues—like cavities or early gum disease—don’t cause pain until they’re more serious. That’s why preventive care is so important. Regular visits help catch small problems before they become big (and painful).

Book it: We recommend checkups every 6 months. And yes, we make them fun!

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Dentist, Not the Myths

At Dr. Sugar Kids Dentistry in Paradise Valley, AZ, we love helping parents stay informed and kids stay healthy. Got more questions or concerns? That’s what we’re here for! Our goal is to make dental care stress-free, educational, and even a little fun.

Ready for a visit? Schedule your child’s appointment today and let’s keep that smile shining bright.