1. Myth: Baby teeth don’t really matter — they’re going to fall out anyway.

Truth: Baby teeth are super important! They help your child chew properly, develop clear speech, and hold space for their future adult teeth. Neglecting baby teeth can lead to pain, infections, and long-term alignment issues.

Pro tip: Schedule your child’s first dental visit by age 1 — yes, even if they only have a couple of teeth!

2. Myth: If my child brushes once a day, that’s good enough.

Truth: Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential. Plaque builds up quickly, especially after sugary snacks or bedtime milk, and brushing only once leaves too much bacteria behind.

At Molar Opposites Sedona, we help kids make brushing fun — ask us about toothbrush timers and music apps that get kids excited!

3. Myth: It’s okay for my baby to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice.

Truth: Nighttime bottle-feeding (even with milk) can lead to baby bottle tooth decay, especially in Sedona’s dry climate where hydration is crucial. The sugars sit on the teeth overnight, feeding harmful bacteria.

Swap the bottle for water at bedtime, and clean your baby’s gums with a soft cloth after feeding.

4. Myth: As long as it’s “natural,” sugar isn’t harmful for teeth.

Truth: Whether it’s cane sugar or honey from Sedona’s farmers market, sugar is sugar when it comes to your child’s teeth. It fuels bacteria that cause cavities, no matter how organic it is.

Instead, offer crunchy fruits like apples or carrots — nature’s toothbrushes!

5. Myth: Kids don’t need to floss.

Truth: Once any two teeth touch, it’s time to floss — even if they’re baby teeth. Food and bacteria hide between teeth where brushes can’t reach.

Try using kid-friendly flossers shaped like animals or dinosaurs to make flossing fun.

6. Myth: Juice is healthier than soda for my child’s teeth.

Truth: Most juice is packed with sugar and acid, which can erode enamel just like soda. Plus, sipping throughout the day increases cavity risk.

Limit juice to 4 oz a day, serve it with meals, and opt for water as the main drink — especially in sunny Sedona!

7. Myth: There’s no need for a pediatric dentist — any dentist will do.

Truth: Kids' teeth require specialized care, and a pediatric dentist is trained to handle the unique challenges of growing smiles. At Molar Opposites Kids Dentistry in Sedona, AZ, our entire team is dedicated to making dental visits a positive, stress-free experience for children (and parents!).

Bonus: Our Sedona-themed kid-friendly office helps children feel right at home!

Final Thoughts

Busting these myths is just the beginning of helping your child build a lifetime of healthy dental habits. Whether your little one is teething, losing their first tooth, or gearing up for braces, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Ready for a checkup?Book your child’s visit with Molar Opposites Kids Dentistry in Sedona, AZ today — because every smile deserves the best start.