This may be the most important and informative blog that I have ever written.  I recently read a scientific article with the following results........"If you introduce juice with sugar into your child's diet BEFORE their 2nd birthday,  it will increase the risk of tooth decay by 3 times (300 percent).  This fact is almost unbelievable,  but it is TRUE.  

It is important that parents understand the importance of the first two years of life.  They are VERY IMPORTANT.   I also read another article by an expert on Parkinsons disease.   The quote was...."If you have  Parkinsons  your family has Parkinsons."   This statement can also apply to mainstream families or those with special needs and autism.  Family members affect their family members unconsciously.   It is just part of being in a family, and you will have both the good and  not so good.  

The youngest child in the family will usually have the biggest "sweet tooth", because they are exposed to sugar earlier in life.  Younger children want the same things that their older siblings get.  This is a fact of life.  It is not bad intentions by parents or siblings.  It is a part of being a family.   

The bottom line message is this.  Parents need to minimize the amount of sugar in their families diet.  You CANNOT eliminate sugar,  you can only MINIMIZE or MONITOR the amount of sugar your family eats or drinks.  Another scientific article that I read have the following results.   In 1960, the average American ate 5 pounds of sugar per year,  and in 2022, the average American at 100 pounds of sugar per year.   

My only advice is......read the nutritional facts on the BACK labels of the products you purchase.  The information on the front label is filled with information to get you to BUY the product.  Ideally, no sugar products are the best for your child.  This advice is to help you reduce your need for expensive dental treatment and save your anxiety and spending  money in the dental office.   
​
Yours for better oral health,  
Dr Steve Branam 

​As parents, we all wish to spare our children the discomfort of dental procedures like shots, drills, and fillings. However, many of us fail to recognize the crucial role of good dental habits at home until our children experience tooth pain. But fear not! By adhering to some simple recommendations, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of painful and costly dental treatments for your little ones.

1. Early Intervention: Schedule a Pediatric Dentist Visit by the First Birthday The journey to healthy teeth begins early. Make sure to take your child for their first dental examination by their first birthday. A pediatric dentist can assess their oral health and provide guidance on proper care from an early age.
2. Lead by Example: Brush Daily, Especially Before Bedtime Parents must lead by example. Make it a habit to brush your teeth daily, particularly before bedtime. This routine not only sets a good example for your child but also helps maintain your own dental health.
3. Regular Checkups for Everyone: Schedule Yearly Dental Exams Don't neglect your own dental health either. Ensure that both parents have regular dental exams and cleanings, ideally scheduled on their birthdays. This sets a precedent for your child and emphasizes the importance of dental care for the whole family.
4. Start Early: Begin Brushing When the First Tooth Emerges As soon as your child's first tooth emerges, it's time to start brushing. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of xylitol toothpaste to gently clean their teeth and gums twice a day.
5. Choose the Right Toothpaste: Opt for Xylitol Products Selecting the right toothpaste is crucial. Consider using Dr. Branam's Xylitol toothpaste, specially formulated to promote dental health. Xylitol has been shown to reduce cavity-causing bacteria, making it an excellent choice for the whole family.
6. Consistency is Key: Brush Before Bedtime Make bedtime brushing a non-negotiable part of your family's routine. Brushing before bed helps remove plaque and food particles, reducing the risk of decay overnight.
7. Avoid Sugary Drinks at Bedtime: Say No to Bottles and Nighttime Breastfeeding Infants should not be given bottles with milk or juice at bedtime, and breastfeeding throughout the night should be avoided. These practices expose teeth to sugars, increasing the risk of decay.
8. Be Mindful of Juice Intake: Delay Introduction Until After 2 Years Delay introducing juice into your child's diet until after their second birthday. Early exposure to sugary drinks significantly increases the risk of tooth decay.
9. Say No to Sugary Snacks: Avoid Fruit Snacks, Candy, and Sugary Drinks Steer clear of sugary snacks like fruit snacks, gummy candy, raisins, and high-sugar drinks. These treats contribute to tooth decay and should be consumed sparingly, if at all.
10. Invest in Prevention: Use Xylitol Toothpaste and Gel Daily Invest in your family's dental health by incorporating Dr. Branam's Xylitol toothpaste and gel into your daily routine. With a cost of just 12 cents per day per family member, it's a small price to pay for healthy smiles.

Conclusion: Tooth decay is a preventable disease that can be passed among family members. By following these ten recommendations, you can protect your children from unnecessary pain and costly dental treatments. Remember, good dental habits start at home and can save you both money and time spent in the dental office. Let's prioritize our family's dental health and ensure bright smiles for years to come.
Yours in dental health,
Dr. Steve Branam





​

Hi, Dr. Branam:
I hope that you are doing well.
People say different things about how many times per day people should brush. Can you please tell me your opinion of how many times per day you should brush (via manual toothbrush and electric toothbrush), floss, and use oral water irrigation (for example, with a curved syringe)?

Thank you,
Jennifer