As parents and guardians, our first concern is making sure our kids are healthy and happy. In order to prepare children for a lifetime of healthy smiles, it is crucial to instill proper dental hygiene habits in them before they reach adolescence.
The pediatric dentist Idaho Falls discusses the risks to early dental health, such as tooth loss and decay, and the preventative dental care techniques to help youngsters (and parents) get off to a good start.
Children cannot take care of their teeth on their own, and dental care begins early. Include these actions in your child’s daily routine.
Why should primary teeth be maintained?
For a child’s general oral health, early dental care is essential. The first set of teeth to erupt in young children are called primary teeth. Often referred to as baby teeth, they may eventually fall out to make room for adult teeth, but they have a significant and long-lasting effect on early development.
According to peer-reviewed studies, losing primary teeth before they are ready to fall out on their own may cause speech development to be delayed to the point where speech treatment is required to address the problem.
Furthermore, primary teeth aid in the development of the jaw and make space for adult teeth, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Tips for early dental care
When your child’s teeth first erupt, which is often around six months, it is critical to take good care of them. The sharper front teeth, known as incisors, usually erupt first, followed by the pointy canines and, lastly, the flatter molars at the back of the mouth.
Your child should have all of their primary teeth by the time they are 12 months old, and they all require maintenance.
Here are a few things to remember!
Create a schedule
As soon as the first tooth erupts, begin to introduce the feeling of brushing. Gently massage their teeth with a moist, gentle towel (use only water). You can start using toothpaste when they are two years old. Twice a day, gently brush your child’s teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny bit of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a rice grain). Urge them to expel the toothpaste by spitting. To let the fluoride continue to shield their teeth, refrain from washing them with water.
Teach brushing methods.
When it comes to teaching and encouraging their children to practice good dental hygiene, parents are essential. Teach your child how to brush by using gentle, circular motions around the gum line once they are old enough to do it on their own. Until their dexterity allows them to brush efficiently on their own, keep an eye on them.
When your child has two teeth that contact, you should begin flossing their teeth. To make the procedure simpler and more enjoyable for kids, use floss picks or kid-friendly flossers.
Set a good example
Children look up to their parents, and dental hygiene practices are no different.By practicing proper dental hygiene and highlighting its significance, parents can help their children develop healthy habits. Oral hygiene can be made more pleasurable and its importance reinforced by brushing and flossing as a family. Some families also explore products like Oral probiotics Amazon to support overall oral health and make the routine more engaging.
Encourage wholesome snacking
It takes more than just brushing and flossing to maintain good dental health. A healthy diet is just as crucial. Sugary drinks and snacks should be avoided as they might aggravate dental damage. Promote healthier choices, such as cheese, fruits, and vegetables, as these promote general well-being and help maintain strong, healthy teeth.
Do not use a bottle or sippy cup for extended periods.
Do not let your child sleep with anything other than water in their bottle or sippy cup. Tooth decay can result from the accumulation of sugary fluid surrounding teeth.
Stop sucking your thumb.
Sucking their thumbs or fingers as a coping strategy is normal for very young children, but if the behavior continues until the age of five, it may cause adult teeth to become misaligned. Introduce alternate activities, such as squeezing a ball, and gently explain to kids the dangers of thumb sucking.
Make an appointment for routine dental exams.
For children to retain the best possible dental health, routine examinations with a pediatric dentist Idaho Falls are essential. It enables the dentist to keep an eye on any changes, administer preventative care, and quickly resolve any issues. In addition to answering inquiries, dentists can instruct kids and parents on proper oral hygiene habits.
Set up fluoride treatments.
Discuss the necessity of fluoride treatment or supplements with a pediatric dentist. Fluoride prevents cavities and strengthens tooth enamel. To guarantee full coverage, a dentist will apply fluoride in the form of gel, foam, or paste to a mold and have the patient bite down.
When playing sports, wear protective gear.
Make sure your child wears a mouthguard to protect their teeth if they play contact sports or engage in other activities that could cause dental injuries.
Parents and other caregivers can help their children retain healthy smiles for a lifetime by putting these kid-friendly dental care suggestions into practice.
