5 Tips to Protect Children's Teeth
Posted on: 28 December 2018
The first few years of your child's life present an excellent opportunity to establish a strong foundation for their lifelong oral health. In addition to getting kids into good dietary habits and oral hygiene routines, you can also make dental healthcare choices that can help your children enjoy healthy smiles. Follow these tips to start your kids off on the right track.
1. Keep Babies' Mouths Clean
Limit the growth of decay-causing bacteria by gently wiping your newborn's mouth with a damp cloth after every feed. This simple action will help to remove sugary milk traces that feed bacteria, allowing your baby's teeth to erupt in a healthy environment.
2. Practice Good Hygiene With Your Baby
Sharing cups, spoons and drinks with your baby can transfer bacteria from your mouth to theirs, which could expose your child to a higher risk of dental decay. Always give your infant clean utensils. If your kid drops their pacifier, wash it with soap and water before giving it back to them; do not put it in your own mouth to clean it.
3. Choose Fluoride Toothpaste For Your Child
In recent years, some parents have turned away from fluoride toothpaste because they worry about the risk of fluorosis. This condition, which is caused by consuming too much fluoride, can cause brown patches to develop on teeth. However, fluorosis is rare, and fluoride toothpaste can strengthen tooth enamel to protect teeth from cavities. Dentists recommend using fluoride toothpaste to brush kids' teeth as soon as they are old enough to spit the paste out instead of swallowing it.
4. Encourage Kids to Eat Healthily
A balanced diet includes whole fruit, vegetables and plenty of calcium from dairy or fortified sources. Foods that can increase the risk of tooth decay include soft drinks, fruit juices and sweets. Try to limit unhealthy treats as much as possible and encourage kids to try fruits and vegetables until they find ones they enjoy eating.
5. See a Family Dentist Regularly
Dentists recommend that kids have their first dental appointment when their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. To put your child at ease, choose a family dentist who has plenty of experience of working with young children. Don't forget to schedule the next checkup before you leave. Regular dental appointments can help to ensure that children's teeth develop normally and remain free from decay.
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