Surprising Factors that Impact Your Child's Dental Health

Is dental health genetic, or can I help prevent issues? Can I pass cavity-causing bacteria to my child? When should my child stop using a pacifier or bottle? Does mouth breathing affect dental health? This week, I welcome Dr. Ashley Lerman, a board-certified pediatric dentist, to answer all these dental questions and more. Throughout our discussion she encourages a balanced, judgement-free approach focusing on progress over perfection. She joins me to discuss: The importance of early oral care and developing good habits How genetic factors and parents’ dental health affects children Tips on brushing, flossing, prolonged bottle use and limiting sugar. To connect with Dr. Ashley Lerman follow her on Instagram @pediatric.dentist.mom and check out all her resources on https://yourfirstgrin.com/. Ask Doctor Mona: Toddler Tooth-brushing Battles We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you! 00:00 Introduction & The Hidden Culprits of Cavities 02:03 Meet Dr. Ashley Lerman: A Passion for Pediatric Dentistry 04:00 The Role of Genetics in Oral Health 06:29 Can Cavities Be Contagious? Parent-Child Transmission 09:36 Diet, Nutrition, and Their Effect on Teeth 10:57 Thumb Sucking, Pacifiers, and Bottle Use 14:45 Mouth Breathing: Myths, Facts, and Health Concerns 22:01 The Importance of Early Dental Hygiene Habits 25:44 Fluoride & Other Key Takeaways for Parents 27:49 Closing Thoughts: Progress Over Perfection Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices