Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Are Fathers Still Reluctant To Be Primary Caretakers Of Their Children? Study Finds Dads Take Shorter Parental Leaves

The first few months of a baby's development is a very important and stressful period of time for the parents. Having a newborn and tackling unfamiliar situations and problems while also worrying about the child’s well-being is a herculean task, too much to handle for a single person. That is why both mother and father must step up and support each other through this time and hence many parents take <span>paternity leaves</span>. These leaves allow parents to only focus on childcare and not work obligations. 

Taking time off work when a baby arrives benefits both fathers and their newborns. However, a new study reveals that most dads still don't take much parental leave, often because they simply can't afford to. The research, published in Pediatrics, found that only 36% of new fathers took more than two weeks of leave, while a significant 64% took two weeks or less. 

<h2>Financial Hurdles Prevent Longer Stays </h2>

This study, which tracked the health and behavior of fathers, surveyed 261 men in Georgia who had children in 2018 or 2019. Of the 240 employed fathers, roughly 73% took some parental leave. However, only about half of those had at least some paid time off, and 20% relied solely on unpaid leave. Nearly 43% of working fathers expressed a desire for more time off but couldn't take it, primarily due to financial concerns. Many cited the inability to afford unpaid leave, insufficient accrued time off, or the fear of losing their jobs. 

Experts agree that when fathers take time off after a baby is born, it's linked to better health for the infant and improved <span>parenting</span> skills for the dad. It's crucial for fathers to experience both the challenges and joys of being a parent. The best way for them to do this is to step away from work and spend time with their new baby without facing money worries or the stress of potentially losing their job. Supporting fathers in taking leave can have a significant positive impact on families.

<h2>Paternity Leaves Helps Father Adapt </h2>

According to Harvard Business Review, research confirms it helps fathers bond with their babies, aids in the baby's development, and strengthens the parents' relationship. But there's a powerful, lesser-known benefit emerging from new studies: it provides a unique form of brain training for fathers. 

Parenting isn't simply an innate ability. While we've long known about the amazing changes a mother's brain undergoes to prepare her for caring for a newborn, new research shows that fathers' brains also transform. These changes happen even without the physical experiences of pregnancy and childbirth or the associated hormonal shifts. This "parental instinct brain training" is possible for all parents. 

Over the past ten years, scientists have learned a lot about neuroplasticity, which is the brain's incredible ability to change its structure and how it works based on new experiences. Becoming a parent is a major time for the brain to adapt. Experts studying this shift emphasize that "fathers are made, not born," meaning spending time with infants is crucial for developing the fathering brain.

For dads, changes in their brains, triggered by their babies' cues, are directly linked to their connection with the infant. This suggests these brain changes actually prepare them for fatherhood. A key finding is that the most impactful brain changes come from active, engaged experience. No one is naturally perfect at being a parent from day one. It's the effort of fully engaging with the baby that drives these brain changes, giving dads the necessary tools to grow into their role over time. 

Quality one-on-one time with your baby is crucial. More time spent alone with an infant leads to bigger brain changes, helping dads become better, more natural caregivers. A study comparing dads in California and Spain showed differences. Spanish dads, who often have more generous paternity leave, showed more brain changes related to focused attention. This suggests dedicated time acts like a "brain workout," preparing dads for parenting. Paternity leave essentially gives you a free brain-training program. The more you engage, the more your brain adapts, making you a more responsive parent over time. 

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Parenting

Fathers role in caretaking

fathers role in babys life

how father impact babys life

Paternity leaves

Maternity leaves

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The first few months of a baby's development is a very important and stressful period of time for the parents. Having a newborn and tackling unfamiliar situations and problems while also worrying about the child’s well-being is a herculean task, too much to handle for a single person. That is why both mother and father must step up and support each other through this time and hence many parents take paternity leaves. These leaves allow parents to only focus on childcare and not work obligations. Taking time off work when a baby arrives benefits both fathers and their newborns. However, a new study reveals that most dads still don't take much parental leave, often because they simply can't afford to. The research, published in Pediatrics, found that only 36% of new fathers took more than two weeks of leave, while a significant 64% took two weeks or less. Financial Hurdles Prevent Longer Stays This study, which tracked the health and behavior of fathers, surveyed 261 men in Georgia who had children in 2018 or 2019. Of the 240 employed fathers, roughly 73% took some parental leave. However, only about half of those had at least some paid time off, and 20% relied solely on unpaid leave. Nearly 43% of working fathers expressed a desire for more time off but couldn't take it, primarily due to financial concerns. Many cited the inability to afford unpaid leave, insufficient accrued time off, or the fear of losing their jobs. Why Paternity Leave Matters Experts agree that when fathers take time off after a baby is born, it's linked to better health for the infant and improved parenting skills for the dad. It's crucial for fathers to experience both the challenges and joys of being a parent. The best way for them to do this is to step away from work and spend time with their new baby without facing money worries or the stress of potentially losing their job. Supporting fathers in taking leave can have a significant positive impact on families. Paternity Leaves Helps Father Adapt According to Harvard Business Review, research confirms it helps fathers bond with their babies, aids in the baby's development, and strengthens the parents' relationship. But there's a powerful, lesser-known benefit emerging from new studies: it provides a unique form of brain training for fathers. Paternal Brain Training Parenting isn't simply an innate ability. While we've long known about the amazing changes a mother's brain undergoes to prepare her for caring for a newborn, new research shows that fathers' brains also transform. These changes happen even without the physical experiences of pregnancy and childbirth or the associated hormonal shifts. This "parental instinct brain training" is possible for all parents. Over the past ten years, scientists have learned a lot about neuroplasticity, which is the brain's incredible ability to change its structure and how it works based on new experiences. Becoming a parent is a major time for the brain to adapt. Experts studying this shift emphasize that "fathers are made, not born," meaning spending time with infants is crucial for developing the fathering brain.For dads, changes in their brains, triggered by their babies' cues, are directly linked to their connection with the infant. This suggests these brain changes actually prepare them for fatherhood. A key finding is that the most impactful brain changes come from active, engaged experience. No one is naturally perfect at being a parent from day one. It's the effort of fully engaging with the baby that drives these brain changes, giving dads the necessary tools to grow into their role over time. Why Time with Baby Matters Quality one-on-one time with your baby is crucial. More time spent alone with an infant leads to bigger brain changes, helping dads become better, more natural caregivers. A study comparing dads in California and Spain showed differences. Spanish dads, who often have more generous paternity leave, showed more brain changes related to focused attention. This suggests dedicated time acts like a "brain workout," preparing dads for parenting. Paternity leave essentially gives you a free brain-training program. The more you engage, the more your brain adapts, making you a more responsive parent over time. 

are fathers still reluctant to be primary caretakers of their children? study finds dads take shorter parental leaves

Do Not Force Your Picky Eater Child To Eat - Picky Eaters Dos And Don'ts Guide

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Many people mistake <span>picky eaters</span> for kids who are just being difficult and do not wish to eat certain foods. While that could be the case, many kids who are picky eaters have sensory issues that cause them to physically dislike certain textures or tastes. 

Many parents try to force their children to eat foods they do not like, thinking that by being strict they can ensure their child gets the proper nutrition they need. However, not only does this not work, but it can also discourage the kid from eating as they will quickly associate eating as an unpleasant experience. So, how does a parent ensure their kid gets the proper nutrition they need, while also making sure they feel safe? 

There are many ways to help your child expand their food preferences, but one must know the causes and different ways you can encourage them to eat better. 

<h2>What Causes <span rel="noindex">Picky Eating In Kids</span>? </h2>

According to a 2018 study published in the Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, <span>picky eating</span> is a very common challenge many parents face during their child's early years. There isn't one clear way to define or pinpoint it, and experts don't fully agree on the best method to identify a picky eater. 

If a child experienced significant difficulties with feeding during their infancy, such as trouble latching or swallowing, it can sometimes set the stage for picky eating habits later in childhood. These early struggles can create negative associations with food. 

<h4>Late Introduction of Lumpy Foods </h4>

Delaying the introduction of chunky or textured solid foods during the weaning period, when infants transition from milk to solids, can hinder their acceptance of different food consistencies. This might lead to a preference for smoother purees only. 

When parents try to force or excessively coax a child to eat, it often backfires. This pressure can make mealtime stressful and create resistance in the child, turning eating into a power struggle rather than an enjoyable experience. 

If a child displays early signs of being particular about food choices, especially if their mother expresses worry or anxiety about these behaviors, it can sometimes escalate. Parental concern can inadvertently reinforce the picky eating. 

<h2>What Can Help Prevent Picky Eating? </h2>

The study also gave some simple strategies can help in preventing or reducing picky eating behaviors:

Regularly offering a wide variety of fresh, wholesome foods exposes children to diverse tastes and textures from an early age. This consistent exposure helps them develop a broader palate and acceptance of different ingredients over time.

Eating the same meal as your child encourages them to try new foods by seeing you enjoy them. It creates a positive and shared mealtime experience, fostering a sense of belonging and making food exploration feel more natural and inviting. 

<h2>Tips To Help Kids Overcome Their Picky Eating </h2>

Children are great imitators! When you visibly enjoy a new food yourself, showing them how much you like it, your child is far more likely to feel curious and brave enough to give it a taste. Lead by example. 

Transform mealtime into a playful experience by arranging fruits and vegetables into silly shapes or funny faces on their plate. This simple trick makes eating an engaging game, shifting focus from "having to eat" to enjoyable discovery. 

Empower your child by offering a limited selection of healthy food options and letting them make the final decision. This sense of control often reduces resistance and increases their willingness to explore and try what they've picked. 

Always pair a new or less-preferred food with a comforting dish your child already adores. This familiar favorite acts as a safety net, making the new food seem less intimidating and more approachable when presented together. 

When you have small amounts of uneaten healthy food, instead of discarding them, freeze tiny portions. This clever strategy allows you to reintroduce the food later, reducing waste and providing more opportunities for exposure. 

Remember that acceptance takes time; it's completely normal for a child to reject a new food multiple times before liking it, sometimes over ten attempts. Simply reintroduce it after a few days without pressure. 

picky eating

Picky Eaters Dos And Donts Guide

Picky Eating In Kids

Picky Eaters

Can you prevent picky eating

Many people mistake picky eaters for kids who are just being difficult and do not wish to eat certain foods. While that could be the case, many kids who are picky eaters have sensory issues that cause them to physically dislike certain textures or tastes. Many parents try to force their children to eat foods they do not like, thinking that by being strict they can ensure their child gets the proper nutrition they need. However, not only does this not work, but it can also discourage the kid from eating as they will quickly associate eating as an unpleasant experience. So, how does a parent ensure their kid gets the proper nutrition they need, while also making sure they feel safe? There are many ways to help your child expand their food preferences, but one must know the causes and different ways you can encourage them to eat better. What Causes Picky Eating In Kids? According to a 2018 study published in the Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, picky eating is a very common challenge many parents face during their child's early years. There isn't one clear way to define or pinpoint it, and experts don't fully agree on the best method to identify a picky eater. Early Feeding Problems If a child experienced significant difficulties with feeding during their infancy, such as trouble latching or swallowing, it can sometimes set the stage for picky eating habits later in childhood. These early struggles can create negative associations with food. Late Introduction of Lumpy Foods Delaying the introduction of chunky or textured solid foods during the weaning period, when infants transition from milk to solids, can hinder their acceptance of different food consistencies. This might lead to a preference for smoother purees only. Pressure to Eat When parents try to force or excessively coax a child to eat, it often backfires. This pressure can make mealtime stressful and create resistance in the child, turning eating into a power struggle rather than an enjoyable experience. Early Pickiness If a child displays early signs of being particular about food choices, especially if their mother expresses worry or anxiety about these behaviors, it can sometimes escalate. Parental concern can inadvertently reinforce the picky eating. What Can Help Prevent Picky Eating? The study also gave some simple strategies can help in preventing or reducing picky eating behaviors:Fresh Foods Regularly offering a wide variety of fresh, wholesome foods exposes children to diverse tastes and textures from an early age. This consistent exposure helps them develop a broader palate and acceptance of different ingredients over time. Family Meals Eating the same meal as your child encourages them to try new foods by seeing you enjoy them. It creates a positive and shared mealtime experience, fostering a sense of belonging and making food exploration feel more natural and inviting. Tips To Help Kids Overcome Their Picky Eating Try it First Children are great imitators! When you visibly enjoy a new food yourself, showing them how much you like it, your child is far more likely to feel curious and brave enough to give it a taste. Lead by example. Make Food Fun Transform mealtime into a playful experience by arranging fruits and vegetables into silly shapes or funny faces on their plate. This simple trick makes eating an engaging game, shifting focus from "having to eat" to enjoyable discovery. Let Them Choose Empower your child by offering a limited selection of healthy food options and letting them make the final decision. This sense of control often reduces resistance and increases their willingness to explore and try what they've picked. Serve with Favorites Always pair a new or less-preferred food with a comforting dish your child already adores. This familiar favorite acts as a safety net, making the new food seem less intimidating and more approachable when presented together. Don't Waste Food When you have small amounts of uneaten healthy food, instead of discarding them, freeze tiny portions. This clever strategy allows you to reintroduce the food later, reducing waste and providing more opportunities for exposure. Be Patient Remember that acceptance takes time; it's completely normal for a child to reject a new food multiple times before liking it, sometimes over ten attempts. Simply reintroduce it after a few days without pressure. 

do not force your picky eater child to eat - picky eaters dos and don'ts guide

Smartphones For Kids Becomes A Common Trend - Average Age For Smartphones Revealed To Be 9

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Nowadays, it is very common to see kids as young as 1st or 2nd graders having phones. While having phones on their person helps parents keep a closer eye on them, but is this much exposure to electronic devices, ok? 

A survey reveals that many parents feel pushed to buy smartphones for their kids, even when they have doubts. Researchers studied 500 parents with children aged 8 to 13 found that almost half felt pressured into buying a phone. Another 44% worried their child would feel "left out" without one, showing how big this decision is for families. 

Even though most parents (74%) had concerns at first, a quarter gave their child a smartphone without talking about if they were ready emotionally. The study also showed that a small number of parents (13%) put very few or no limits on phone use. Most of these parents felt their kids would just find ways around any rules anyway. 

This study was requested by Motorola to highlight helpful online tools and advice from a UK children's charity. It aims to show the tough choices parents face when getting their child's first phone. 

An expert noted that there's no "right" age to give a child their first phone. It really depends on each child and what that family needs. They stressed that parents should think about why their child needs a phone. If it's just for calls and texts, a simpler phone might be better than a smartphone. The expert also highlighted how important it is for parents and kids to talk openly about staying safe online. 

Another survey, which included 500 children aged 8 to 13, found that 44% of kids were going online or using apps without their parents knowing. What's more concerning, during this unsupervised time, 31% saw things they felt were not appropriate for their age. 

<h2>Why Smartphones Are Still Popular </h2>

Even with these concerns, most parents are still choosing smartphones over simpler devices for their kids. The main reasons are safety features and GPS tracking, with over half of parents (56%) seeing these as key benefits. A representative from the phone company said, "It's important to ensure children are equipped with the right guidance and boundaries when it comes to smartphone use and internet access." The company is actively working with charities to give parents the tools and information to make smart choices about their children's smartphone use. 

<h2>Do Smartphones Affects Children’s Health </h2>

A 2022 study done by European Child &amp; Adolescent Psychiatry, states that more and more kids and teens are using cell phones and other wireless gadgets. The study found some evidence suggesting that a lot of general phone and device use might be linked to more outward behavior problems like being hyper or aggressive in younger kids and teens. However, the results were less clear for inward problems like anxiety or depression. 

Another 2023 study published in the Journal of Therapies &amp; Rehabilitation Sciences, detailed the physical as well as mental aspects of smartphone usage in kids. 

Spending too much time looking down at smartphones is really impacting kids' bodies. This often leads to poor posture, where their necks are bent forward for long periods, causing stiffness and pain. It can also limit how much they can move their neck and put extra strain on their spine. Plus, this constant bent-neck position can even affect their breathing, making their lungs work less well and weakening the muscles they use to breathe. These problems are also connected to kids being less fit and sometimes gaining too much weight. 

Beyond just physical issues, using smartphones too much can also hurt kids' minds and feelings. It can make real-life friendships weaker, leading to kids feeling more lonely and shy around others. Emotionally, a lot of screen time might make them act immature, have unstable moods, struggle to pay attention, and have less self-control. Another big problem is that using phones a lot is linked to more sleep problems, meaning kids aren't getting the rest they need to be healthy and happy. 

smartphones affects childrens health

Should kids have smartphones

smartphones and health

how smartphones affect kids

smartphones and kids

Nowadays, it is very common to see kids as young as 1st or 2nd graders having phones. While having phones on their person helps parents keep a closer eye on them, but is this much exposure to electronic devices, ok? A survey reveals that many parents feel pushed to buy smartphones for their kids, even when they have doubts. Researchers studied 500 parents with children aged 8 to 13 found that almost half felt pressured into buying a phone. Another 44% worried their child would feel "left out" without one, showing how big this decision is for families. Worries and Few Rules Even though most parents (74%) had concerns at first, a quarter gave their child a smartphone without talking about if they were ready emotionally. The study also showed that a small number of parents (13%) put very few or no limits on phone use. Most of these parents felt their kids would just find ways around any rules anyway. This study was requested by Motorola to highlight helpful online tools and advice from a UK children's charity. It aims to show the tough choices parents face when getting their child's first phone. Is There a "Right" Age? An expert noted that there's no "right" age to give a child their first phone. It really depends on each child and what that family needs. They stressed that parents should think about why their child needs a phone. If it's just for calls and texts, a simpler phone might be better than a smartphone. The expert also highlighted how important it is for parents and kids to talk openly about staying safe online. Another survey, which included 500 children aged 8 to 13, found that 44% of kids were going online or using apps without their parents knowing. What's more concerning, during this unsupervised time, 31% saw things they felt were not appropriate for their age. Why Smartphones Are Still Popular Even with these concerns, most parents are still choosing smartphones over simpler devices for their kids. The main reasons are safety features and GPS tracking, with over half of parents (56%) seeing these as key benefits. A representative from the phone company said, "It's important to ensure children are equipped with the right guidance and boundaries when it comes to smartphone use and internet access." The company is actively working with charities to give parents the tools and information to make smart choices about their children's smartphone use. Do Smartphones Affects Children’s Health A 2022 study done by European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, states that more and more kids and teens are using cell phones and other wireless gadgets. The study found some evidence suggesting that a lot of general phone and device use might be linked to more outward behavior problems like being hyper or aggressive in younger kids and teens. However, the results were less clear for inward problems like anxiety or depression. Another 2023 study published in the Journal of Therapies & Rehabilitation Sciences, detailed the physical as well as mental aspects of smartphone usage in kids. Physical Health Spending too much time looking down at smartphones is really impacting kids' bodies. This often leads to poor posture, where their necks are bent forward for long periods, causing stiffness and pain. It can also limit how much they can move their neck and put extra strain on their spine. Plus, this constant bent-neck position can even affect their breathing, making their lungs work less well and weakening the muscles they use to breathe. These problems are also connected to kids being less fit and sometimes gaining too much weight. Mental Health and Well-being Beyond just physical issues, using smartphones too much can also hurt kids' minds and feelings. It can make real-life friendships weaker, leading to kids feeling more lonely and shy around others. Emotionally, a lot of screen time might make them act immature, have unstable moods, struggle to pay attention, and have less self-control. Another big problem is that using phones a lot is linked to more sleep problems, meaning kids aren't getting the rest they need to be healthy and happy. 

smartphones for kids becomes a common trend - average age for smartphones revealed to be 9

Tanya Dutt

Are People Too Busy To Take Care Of Their Own Health? Study Finds Lack Of Check-ups Increase Chances Of This Eye Condition

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If a 3-year-old winces every time she bites an apple, parents think she is a picky eater but what happens months later, she develops a severe tooth decay that spreads to several teeth—an experience that can be avoided if she undergoes a simple dental check-up at an earlier time. This may all ring familiar and true to many parents and across the globe, thousands of kids quietly endure avoidable oral health problems, all because of delayed visits to the dentist. And although the symptoms may initially appear insignificant, the long-term effects of ignoring early dental care are immense—affecting all the way from sleep to speech to self-esteem.

Routine dental visits and early treatment are the foundation of proper oral health during childhood. Pediatric dentists emphasize that instilling healthy habits of oral hygiene at an early age not only wards off tooth decay and gum disease but also aids in the detection and treatment of conditions such as crooked teeth or irregular growth patterns. These initial treatments encourage proper dental growth and lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.

"Oral health is directly related to overall health, development, and growth," maintains Dr. Manasi Shimpi, an expert pediatric and preventive dentist. She wholeheartedly recommends that the first dental visit occur by a child's first birthday or whenever their first tooth erupts. "We are observing more cavities in toddlers than ever before," she cautions. The main culprits? Snacking throughout the day, high levels of processed and sugar intake, and poor oral hygiene habits.

Contrary to popular belief, cavities don't necessarily hurt in the beginning. That quiet march towards destruction typically means by the time they're detected, the damage is widespread—often necessitating intricate procedures with general anesthesia. These not only become physically draining for young children but emotionally traumatic for families, not to mention the cost involved.

Perhaps the most direct danger of delayed dental treatment is the onset of pain and infection. Painful cavities or gum problems can be very distressing, can cause discomfort while eating, and can even contribute to other oral diseases. In extreme instances, children can be treated under general anesthesia—a process not only psychologically draining for the child but also stressful and expensive for families.

Dentist visits aren't all about cavities. The anatomy of a child's mouth can tell us a lot about their health, development, and growth. Missed appointments mean important indications such as tongue-ties, incorrect bite formation, and constricted jaws usually go unseen until they appear as major problems—anything from feeding issues to speech disorders.

But the effect is not just in the mouth. Dr. Shimpi stresses, "Oral health is closely related to general health, growth, and development. When we take care of kids' teeth early, we are taking care of their future." Creating a good rapport with the dentist at an early age can also reduce fear and anxiety, fostering a lifetime of oral care.

The tongue molds the jaw, and the top of the mouth serves as the floor of the nose," says Dr. Shimpi. "Abnormalities in the structure of the jaw can cut off nasal breathing and push kids into mouth-breathing—a habit that's associated with sleep disturbance, snoring, even behavioral issues.

Factors such as tongue-ties—when the tissue underneath the tongue inhibits movement—can disrupt breastfeeding, followed by speech problems and the formation of a weak jaw. Early examination gives way to interventions like oral myotherapy, habit correction, or small procedures that can salvage these issues before they become entrenched.

Can Missing Dentist Visit Predispose Your Child to Developmental Defects?

The relationship between children's oral health and their capacity to develop and flourish is more profound than most of us appreciate. Impaired dental development can result in speech difficulties, difficulty chewing healthy foods, and sleep disturbances—all contributing factors in learning, behavior, and emotional balance.

Neglected, these issues tend to necessitate expensive and elaborate treatments—orthodontic work, operations, or speech therapy—that might have been prevented with early dental examination.

Additionally, early visits encourage a good rapport with <span>dental health</span> providers, eliminating fear and apprehension that might arise if a child's initial visit is already connected to pain or discomfort. Establishing trust during these formative years ensures children are more inclined to have good oral hygiene and keep regular dental check-ups in their lives.

One of the most popular myths among parents is that baby teeth do not matter because they will fall out anyway. This myth is not only false but can also be detrimental. Baby teeth, or primary teeth, are essential in several ways: they enable children to chew food effectively, assist in the formation of speech, and preserve space for the incoming permanent teeth. Neglecting their upkeep can lay the groundwork for lifelong dental and developmental issues.

Dr. Shimpi says, "Tiny teeth are a big deal. They help with chewing, speech, and jaw formation, and hold space for permanent teeth. Ignoring delay or irregularity in milk teeth can influence these functions later on." 

Dental care abandoned in early childhood can have a ripple effect: excruciating infections, eating problems, sleep disturbances, impaired speech development, and behavioral problems due to pain and malnutrition.

Dr. Shimpi stresses that hygiene needs to start even prior to teeth coming in. Gently wiping the baby's gums with a clean gauze after meals can set the stage for good habits. When teeth arrive, a soft-bristled toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste are a must. "It's not really about brushing—about creating consistency," she says.

Is Delayed Teething Normal Or A Red Flag?

Teething typically begins between 6 and 10 months of age, but a slight delay—especially if there is a family history—is usually not a cause for concern. However, if no teeth have erupted by 12-14 months, it’s wise to consult a pediatric dentist. Dr. Shimpi notes, “Sometimes, delayed teething is simply a variation of normal growth, but occasionally it can indicate underlying issues like nutritional deficiencies, endocrine disorders, or genetic conditions.”

What is most important is not so much when the teeth come in, but how. Are they swollen or colored? Is there undue drooling or irritability without eruption signs? Early dental visits aid in monitoring teething patterns within the overall scheme of growth and development, preventing concerns from arising.

Early dental visits enable teething patterns to be evaluated in relation to overall development, so nothing essential is overlooked during these formative years.

Brushing the teeth twice a day, consuming nutritious foods, avoiding excessive snacks between meals, and minimizing sugary foods are habits that form the basis of maintaining oral health. Forming these habits at an early age not only avoids dental issues but also makes the children responsible for their own health.

Dr. Shimpi puts it in perspective: "Parents should consider baby teeth not as temporary fashion accessories, but as introductory instruments for life-long oral wellness. What is visible in the mouth tends to mirror what is occurring within the body. Baby teeth care is the gateway to a healthy mouth and lifetime smile confidence." 

Prevention is always better than cure—particularly when it comes to children's teeth. Beginning with simple measures such as wiping gums after feeding, brushing teeth twice daily, limiting sugary snacks, and planning for frequent dental visits can be the key.

Dr. Shimpi sums it up: "Tiny teeth are building blocks. They're not merely temporary add-ons—they shape speech, nutrition, sleep, and even future confidence. Neglecting delays or issues can have lasting effects well into adulthood."

Prolonged delays in visiting the dentist could be considered inconsequential, but the effects are far-reaching. Preventing dental cavities is just the tip of the iceberg of what early dental visits are all about—supporting a child's development, growth, and overall health. The price of postponed dental care is not merely financial. It's paid in pain, anxiety, lost developmental signals, and long-term health consequences.

<em>Dr. Manasi Shimpi, a leading Pediatric and Preventive Dentist at HNM Dental Centre, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi in India</em>

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childhood cavities

dental hygiene for kids

If a 3-year-old winces every time she bites an apple, parents think she is a picky eater but what happens months later, she develops a severe tooth decay that spreads to several teeth—an experience that can be avoided if she undergoes a simple dental check-up at an earlier time. This may all ring familiar and true to many parents and across the globe, thousands of kids quietly endure avoidable oral health problems, all because of delayed visits to the dentist. And although the symptoms may initially appear insignificant, the long-term effects of ignoring early dental care are immense—affecting all the way from sleep to speech to self-esteem.Routine dental visits and early treatment are the foundation of proper oral health during childhood. Pediatric dentists emphasize that instilling healthy habits of oral hygiene at an early age not only wards off tooth decay and gum disease but also aids in the detection and treatment of conditions such as crooked teeth or irregular growth patterns. These initial treatments encourage proper dental growth and lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles."Oral health is directly related to overall health, development, and growth," maintains Dr. Manasi Shimpi, an expert pediatric and preventive dentist. She wholeheartedly recommends that the first dental visit occur by a child's first birthday or whenever their first tooth erupts. "We are observing more cavities in toddlers than ever before," she cautions. The main culprits? Snacking throughout the day, high levels of processed and sugar intake, and poor oral hygiene habits.Contrary to popular belief, cavities don't necessarily hurt in the beginning. That quiet march towards destruction typically means by the time they're detected, the damage is widespread—often necessitating intricate procedures with general anesthesia. These not only become physically draining for young children but emotionally traumatic for families, not to mention the cost involved.Perhaps the most direct danger of delayed dental treatment is the onset of pain and infection. Painful cavities or gum problems can be very distressing, can cause discomfort while eating, and can even contribute to other oral diseases. In extreme instances, children can be treated under general anesthesia—a process not only psychologically draining for the child but also stressful and expensive for families.Dentist visits aren't all about cavities. The anatomy of a child's mouth can tell us a lot about their health, development, and growth. Missed appointments mean important indications such as tongue-ties, incorrect bite formation, and constricted jaws usually go unseen until they appear as major problems—anything from feeding issues to speech disorders.But the effect is not just in the mouth. Dr. Shimpi stresses, "Oral health is closely related to general health, growth, and development. When we take care of kids' teeth early, we are taking care of their future." Creating a good rapport with the dentist at an early age can also reduce fear and anxiety, fostering a lifetime of oral care.The tongue molds the jaw, and the top of the mouth serves as the floor of the nose," says Dr. Shimpi. "Abnormalities in the structure of the jaw can cut off nasal breathing and push kids into mouth-breathing—a habit that's associated with sleep disturbance, snoring, even behavioral issues.Factors such as tongue-ties—when the tissue underneath the tongue inhibits movement—can disrupt breastfeeding, followed by speech problems and the formation of a weak jaw. Early examination gives way to interventions like oral myotherapy, habit correction, or small procedures that can salvage these issues before they become entrenched.Can Missing Dentist Visit Predispose Your Child to Developmental Defects?The relationship between children's oral health and their capacity to develop and flourish is more profound than most of us appreciate. Impaired dental development can result in speech difficulties, difficulty chewing healthy foods, and sleep disturbances—all contributing factors in learning, behavior, and emotional balance.Neglected, these issues tend to necessitate expensive and elaborate treatments—orthodontic work, operations, or speech therapy—that might have been prevented with early dental examination.Additionally, early visits encourage a good rapport with dental health providers, eliminating fear and apprehension that might arise if a child's initial visit is already connected to pain or discomfort. Establishing trust during these formative years ensures children are more inclined to have good oral hygiene and keep regular dental check-ups in their lives.Misconceptions About Baby TeethOne of the most popular myths among parents is that baby teeth do not matter because they will fall out anyway. This myth is not only false but can also be detrimental. Baby teeth, or primary teeth, are essential in several ways: they enable children to chew food effectively, assist in the formation of speech, and preserve space for the incoming permanent teeth. Neglecting their upkeep can lay the groundwork for lifelong dental and developmental issues.Dr. Shimpi says, "Tiny teeth are a big deal. They help with chewing, speech, and jaw formation, and hold space for permanent teeth. Ignoring delay or irregularity in milk teeth can influence these functions later on." Dental care abandoned in early childhood can have a ripple effect: excruciating infections, eating problems, sleep disturbances, impaired speech development, and behavioral problems due to pain and malnutrition.Dr. Shimpi stresses that hygiene needs to start even prior to teeth coming in. Gently wiping the baby's gums with a clean gauze after meals can set the stage for good habits. When teeth arrive, a soft-bristled toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste are a must. "It's not really about brushing—about creating consistency," she says.Is Delayed Teething Normal Or A Red Flag?Teething typically begins between 6 and 10 months of age, but a slight delay—especially if there is a family history—is usually not a cause for concern. However, if no teeth have erupted by 12-14 months, it’s wise to consult a pediatric dentist. Dr. Shimpi notes, “Sometimes, delayed teething is simply a variation of normal growth, but occasionally it can indicate underlying issues like nutritional deficiencies, endocrine disorders, or genetic conditions.”What is most important is not so much when the teeth come in, but how. Are they swollen or colored? Is there undue drooling or irritability without eruption signs? Early dental visits aid in monitoring teething patterns within the overall scheme of growth and development, preventing concerns from arising.Early dental visits enable teething patterns to be evaluated in relation to overall development, so nothing essential is overlooked during these formative years.Role of Parents and DentistsBrushing the teeth twice a day, consuming nutritious foods, avoiding excessive snacks between meals, and minimizing sugary foods are habits that form the basis of maintaining oral health. Forming these habits at an early age not only avoids dental issues but also makes the children responsible for their own health.Dr. Shimpi puts it in perspective: "Parents should consider baby teeth not as temporary fashion accessories, but as introductory instruments for life-long oral wellness. What is visible in the mouth tends to mirror what is occurring within the body. Baby teeth care is the gateway to a healthy mouth and lifetime smile confidence." Prevention Is Easier Than CurePrevention is always better than cure—particularly when it comes to children's teeth. Beginning with simple measures such as wiping gums after feeding, brushing teeth twice daily, limiting sugary snacks, and planning for frequent dental visits can be the key.Dr. Shimpi sums it up: "Tiny teeth are building blocks. They're not merely temporary add-ons—they shape speech, nutrition, sleep, and even future confidence. Neglecting delays or issues can have lasting effects well into adulthood."Prolonged delays in visiting the dentist could be considered inconsequential, but the effects are far-reaching. Preventing dental cavities is just the tip of the iceberg of what early dental visits are all about—supporting a child's development, growth, and overall health. The price of postponed dental care is not merely financial. It's paid in pain, anxiety, lost developmental signals, and long-term health consequences.Dr. Manasi Shimpi, a leading Pediatric and Preventive Dentist at HNM Dental Centre, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi in India

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