Our teeth are essential for eating, talking, and smiling brightly. To ensure your child's teeth stay healthy and strong, it's crucial to establish good dental habits early on. By keeping their teeth clean through regular brushing and flossing, visiting the dentist regularly, and ensuring they receive enough fluoride, you can safeguard their oral health effectively.

Why Teeth Cleaning Matters?

Cleaning teeth regularly with brushing and flossing prevents the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria. This plaque can lead to cavities, which are small holes in the teeth that, if untreated, can worsen over time, as well as gum disease, which causes gum irritation, bleeding, and potentially tooth loss.

How Kids Can Keep Their Teeth Clean

Even before your baby's first tooth appears, gently clean their gums with a soft, damp washcloth after feedings. As they grow:

• Children under 3 years old should brush twice daily for 2 minutes using a smear of fluoride toothpaste the size of a grain of rice.

• Children 3 years and older should use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, learning to spit it out after brushing. Once teeth touch, daily flossing is essential.

• From age 10 onwards, children can typically brush and floss independently, ensuring they brush twice daily and floss once daily.

When Should Kids Visit the Dentist?

It's recommended that children see a dentist within 6 months of their first tooth erupting or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Early dental visits help identify and address issues promptly and help children become comfortable with dental checkups.

What to Expect at Dentist Visits

Initial visits involve a brief exam while sitting on a parent's lap. As children grow, dental checkups include a thorough cleaning by a dental hygienist and a comprehensive exam by the dentist. Additional treatments such as X-rays, fluoride applications to prevent cavities, or dental sealants may be recommended based on individual needs.

Ensuring Adequate Fluoride

Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, helping to prevent cavities. Ensure your child receives enough fluoride by checking your drinking water source or discussing supplements with your dentist. Fluoride treatments and mouthwashes may also be recommended as your child grows older.

When to Seek Dental Advice

Contact your dentist if your child experiences tooth or gum pain, has broken or discolored teeth, or loses a tooth due to injury. Early intervention can prevent complications.

Additional Tips for Healthy Teeth:

• Introduce cups for liquids by 6 months and transition from bottles by age 1 to promote oral development.

• Avoid giving juice to babies under 12 months and limit servings as they grow older, favoring water over sugary drinks.

• Discourage prolonged bottle or sippy cup use, especially with milk or juice, to prevent tooth decay.

• Minimize consumption of sugary snacks and beverages, encouraging brushing after eating.

• Maintain a smoke-free environment to reduce the risk of cavities associated with secondhand smoke exposure.