Protecting Your Child’s Teeth
When it comes to the health of your child’s primary teeth, there’s no better time than now to begin establishing good oral health habits. The truth is, oral hygiene begins in infancy, as dentists recommend wiping down gum tissues after feedings. This sets into motion a predictable routine as teeth begin to erupt. Thus, as a child approaches his or her first birthday, they can visit the dentist for the first time for an official check-up. All of these things play a crucial role in protecting your child’s teeth.
In addition, WebMD offers 8 steps to prevent cavities and keep your child’s smile healthy:
Get a Checkup
As mentioned, it’s important for a child to visit a dentist by his or her first birthday. This is referred to as preventative care, and it proves to saves families money in the long run (up to 40% over a five year period, according to the CDC).
Teach Good Habits
From the very beginning, brushing is important, and this includes the period of time before teeth erupt. Once teeth appear, use an infant toothbrush with fluoridated toothpaste twice each day. Flossing may begin once two of the teeth touch each other.
Avoid Baby Bottle Decay
Simply put, do not get in the habit of putting your baby or toddler to sleep with a bottle of juice or milk. These liquids pool in the child’s mouth and linger around gum tissues, causing decay.
Cut Back on Juice!
When giving your child juice, make sure it’s 100% fruit juice, yet put a limit on how much you provide. As a rule, only allow about 4 ounces of juice each day.
Control the Sippy Cup
Surprising to some parents, when a child drinks from a sippy cup all day long, there is a greater risk of tooth decay on the backs of front teeth. This is especially true when the child is allowed to drink juices from their cup.
Ditch the Pacifier by Age 2 or 3
Not only can a pacifier impact the position of teeth, it can affect the overall shape of a child’s mouth. Thus, do not rely on a pacifier as a long-term solution.
Watch Out for Sweet Medicine
Because certain medications contain sugar, dentists urge parents to be aware of the need to brush more often. This depends on the type of medication the child is taking, and is especially important when a child is prescribed a long-term medication.
Stand Firm on Brushing, Flossing and Rinsing
While some children will put up a fight when it comes to brushing and flossing, it’s important to stand your ground. Their oral health is worth it!
Your Child Deserves A Lifetime Of Good Oral Health!
At Lawrenceville Family Dental Care, our dentist and staff are highly focused on prevention and education, and we work hard to help children of all ages develop good oral health habits. That’s because your child deserves a lifetime of good oral health!
Posted on Behalf of Lawrenceville Family Dental Care
