'Do They Really Need to be Brushing Their Teeth at This Age?'

Here's something that may surprise you: dental cavities are a disease, not just a hole in a tooth.

Actually, it's the single-most common chronic childhood disease -- far more common than asthma and obesity, according to the California Dental Association.

And to make matters worse, tooth decay is contagious, just like the measles, the flu, and smallpox.

The bacteria that causes decay can be passed from one person to another by kissing or sharing drinking cups or silverware.

Pain and suffering because of untreated tooth decay can lead to problems in eating, speaking and paying attention in school. In other words, cavities hurt.

One way to help avoid cavities is to make sure your child brushes twice a day, every day, with a soft brush. This comes directly from the top, the ADA.

Unfortunately, many children do not have the coordination to brush their teeth on their own until about 6 years old.

With younger children, they can get the process started, but you'll need to give his mouth a once-over to make sure the job is done right.

As your child gets older, show him how to brush with a fluoride toothpaste and floss on his own.

You may even want to start a "reward program" when their teeth start gleaming.

"Carrots" or rewards are guaranteed to help the process. In other words, give them an incentive for doing the job and doing it right!

Remember, bacteria that causes tooth decay can get into the bloodstream, where they increase the risk of ulcers, pneumonia, digestive problems, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It's the big picture as much as it is the pretty smile!

With all that said..."Let's get those kids brushing early!"