Our teeth are essential for eating, speaking, and smiling. Establishing good dental habits early on is crucial for keeping your child’s teeth healthy. Key practices include regular brushing and flossing, routine dental check-ups, and ensuring adequate fluoride intake.
Why Is Teeth Cleaning Important?
Regular brushing and flossing prevent plaque buildup. Plaque is a clear, sticky substance filled with bacteria that can cause:
Cavities: Untreated cavities can grow larger and deeper, potentially leading to significant tooth damage.
Gum Disease: If plaque is not removed, it can irritate the gums, leading to gum disease, which can cause sore, bleeding gums, and even tooth loss.
How Can Kids Keep Their Teeth Clean?
For Babies:
Before your baby’s teeth emerge, gently clean their gums with a clean, damp washcloth after each feeding.
For Children Under 3:
Help them brush twice daily for 2 minutes using a soft toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
For Children Aged 3 and Older:
Assist them in brushing twice daily for 2 minutes with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Encourage them to spit out the toothpaste.
Once they have teeth that touch, help them floss daily.
For Children Aged 10 and Older:
They can typically brush and floss on their own. Ensure they brush twice daily for 2 minutes and floss once daily.
When Should Kids Visit the Dentist?
Children should visit the dentist within six months of their first tooth appearing or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Early dental visits help identify and address issues promptly and familiarize your child with the dental office environment.
As your child grows, regular dental visits should continue, typically every 3 to 12 months. Your dentist can advise on the appropriate frequency.
What Happens at Dental Visits?
During early visits, your baby may sit on your lap while the dentist conducts a brief examination. As your child grows, dental check-ups will include a thorough cleaning by a dental hygienist and an examination by the dentist to check the health of the teeth and gums. The dentist might also recommend X-rays to detect cavities, fluoride treatments to strengthen the teeth, or dental sealants to protect against decay.
Ensuring Adequate Fluoride Applicaton
Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. To ensure your child receives the right amount:
Check if your drinking water contains fluoride. If not, or if you use well water, consult your dentist about fluoride supplements. Discuss with your healthcare provider or dentist the appropriate schedule for fluoride treatments. When children can rinse and spit (around age 6), ask your dentist about using fluoride mouthwash.
When to Call the Doctor or Dentist
Contact your doctor or dentist if your child experiences tooth or gum pain, a broken tooth, or if you notice dark or light spots on their teeth. Also, seek immediate care if a tooth is knocked out due to injury.
