While all parents know baby teeth eventually fall out, it is important to keep them healthy. Dental decay in baby teeth can negatively affect permanent teeth and lead to future dental problems.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends bringing your child to the dentist before their first birthday. In their visit, the dentist will check your child’s teeth for decay and signs of early developmental problems, explain how to care for your child’s teeth and answer any questions or concerns you might have. After this, your kids should see a dentist every six months to help keep their good oral hygiene and for your child to develop a positive attitude about the dentist. However, you should always avoid saying negative/scary words such as needle and hurt. One fun thing to do with your kid is to “Play the Dentist” to familiarize your child with the regular dental visits such a “dental exam,” “taking fake x-rays,” etc. Check one excellent example below!
Caring for an infant’s teeth
Brushing your child’s teeth should begin when the first tooth is visible because teeth are susceptible to decay as soon as they appear in the mouth. Also, children need calcium to 2 help build strong teeth. Which also brings us to eating and drinking habits. Avoid giving your child snacks containing sugar or starch.
By age 3
Brushing your child’s teeth should begin when the first tooth is visible because teeth are susceptible to decay as soon as they appear in the mouth. Also, children need calcium to help build strong teeth. Which also brings us to eating and drinking habits. Avoid giving your child snacks containing sugar or starch.
By age 8
Your kids should be able to brush and floss by themselves at this age, with occasional check-ups by you and their dentist. Turn brushing and flossing into a daily routine. We know how hard that last step can be but make it fun! by giving your child a sing-along toothbrush and bubble gum-flavored floss. Also do a brushing chart where at the end of the month, they have a special reward for following their brushing and flossing routine.
How can we teach our children about their dental health?
One of the best ways you can celebrate this time of the year is to schedule an appointment at Bonita Del Rey Dental Care. Regular cleanings should happen every 6 months, and the more exposure to the dentist that you give your kids, the more comfortable they’ll be when they visit the office.
Do a Brushing Checkup
It’s important to clean each tooth thoroughly, top and bottom, inside and out. One way to help to improve this step is to play the game of ”Find the hidden teeth” Initially, a child cannot brush their teeth without help until he’s older, however, it might take longer if it’s not supervised. So help them by instructing them in the correct way to brush their teeth.
Toothbrushes
As soon as your kid has their first tooth, you should be helping them to brush their teeth two times a day with a size of a grain of rice of fluoride toothpaste on a child-sized toothbrush that has soft bristles. Fun fact: there are brushes designed to address the different needs of children of all ages.
The ADA warns that frayed bristles decrease the effectiveness of a toothbrush, so remember to replace yours and your kids every 3 to 4 months. National Children’s Dental Health Month is the ideal time to toss out old toothbrushes and grab some new ones. Let your kids pick out toothbrushes with their favorite characters on them and toothpaste that they’ll like to use
Show Plaque
Because plaque is difficult for your kids to see, they may not understand why it’s so important to brush all of their teeth. Using a plaque-disclosing tablet or mouthrinse will reveal plaque on their teeth. Then, look in a mirror together, and point out areas where plaque likes to hide (like the picture below). Invite your kids to brush the color away.
Cultivating good habits and discipline and adhering to regular visits to the dentist will greatly help children get a good start for a lifelong well maintained and conditioned teeth and gums.
We hope you learned something new about your kid’s dental health, and the importance of keeping it clean and hydrated. Our team is here to assist you with any questions you may have about your child. Contact our office with questions, dental check-up appointments, free dental consultations and/or second opinions.
Contact us now at (619) 777-1122, via email at [email protected] or visit our office in-person at 1415 Ridgeback Rd. Suite 26, Chula Vista, CA 91910
