How to keep your child’s teeth healthy?

How to keep your child’s teeth healthy?

It becomes very important for parents to realize how much dental care their kids need. They are aware that they want to prevent cavities but don’t know the best way to do so. The number one problem with kids is cavity. Researches proved that:   

One out of ten, two years old, on an average have one or more cavity.

28% of three years old, have one or more cavities.

Approximately 50% of five years old, have one or more cavity.

When should you take kids to a dentist?

It is recommended that kids should see a dentist when they turn one year old. On the very first meeting, the dentist will explain the proper brushing and flossing method. The dentist will do a thorough examination once the baby starts sitting on your lap.

These visits will help in detecting the problems early. The kids will also get familiar with the dentist and will not have any fear going to them as they grow older. Keep in mind to take your kid to a pediatric dentist only as they specialize in handling the issues related to kids’ dental health.

How to prevent cavities?

Parents assume that cavities in baby teeth don’t affect much but that is not the case. Cavities can affect the permanent teeth of your kids which lead to future dental problems.

Teaching good dental habits Proper guidance is the best way to protect your kid’s teeth. Though the kid may participate enthusiastically but still might not be able to brush his teeth all by himself. You will have to supervise him while brushing so that all the plaque is removed. If plaque, a sticky substance accumulates on the teeth, causes tooth decay.

Brushing Start helping your kid, brush his teeth two times a day as soon as the first tooth appears. Apply only a pea-size fluoride tooth paste on your child tooth brush that has soft bristles. Select an appropriate tooth brush for your child designed to address the different needs of the child teeth.

Use enough fluoride Fluoride toughens the enamel and the regular use makes it difficult for the acid to penetrate.

Use a fluoride contained tooth paste but it alone will not fully protect your kid’s teeth. If you use purified water at home, ask your dentist to recommend fluoride supplements.

Brushing motion You must be confused on which brushing motion is best whether up and down, back and forth, or in circles. The fact is that the brushing motion really doesn’t matter much. The most important thing is to brush thoroughly, cleaning each tooth, top and bottom, inside and out.

You will find that the child will focus on brushing the front teeth only, so it is your duty to supervise and do the actual brushing if needed.

Limit or avoid sugary foods Consumption of sugary foods or drinks can erode enamel and cause cavities. Limit their consumption and make your child brush or rinse their mouth after having such foods.

Dental checkups Take your child to a pediatric dentist once they turn one year old. The dentist will examine and suggest the ways to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy.

Are you looking for an experienced and gentle dentist to take care of your child’s smile?

Contact Snellville Family Dental to know more about your child’s dental health. Their dentistry for kids Snellville team is trained, professional and will help your child feel welcome and safe.

Their office is equipped for entertaining and easing little ones’ dental fears. For appointment or more details, please feel free to contact their staff.