A child’s baby teeth eventually fall out, ceding to permanent teeth. However, this doesn’t mean you can take the child’s milk teeth for granted. Though temporary, they are still crucial to your child’s health and development. Teeth enable a child to properly bite, chew and speak. There is no better time than the first few years of a child’s life to teach them proper oral hygiene.
Oral problems can occur no matter how young a child is. Cavities are one of the most common oral problems during childhood, especially for those with a sweet tooth. Sugars encourage bacteria that damages tooth enamel and threatens a child’s continuing oral health. Proper oral care helps prevent cavities and other oral maladies, preventable by diligent brushing, flossing, and tooth-healthy diets.
Brushing
Teaching your children the proper way to brush their teeth is the first step to ensuring healthy teeth and gums. If you are brushing your little one’s teeth, use a pea-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste and remind your child to avoid swallowing the toothpaste.
If they are already brushing their own teeth, encourage them to do so gently. Dentists in Greenville, SC suggest the use of a soft-bristled toothbrush because it is gentler on the teeth and gums.
First, brush the inside surface of the teeth back and forth, as plaque usually gathers in those areas. The next part to brush are the outer surfaces and then the chewing surfaces. After that, clean behind each front tooth with the tip of the brush. Don’t forget to clean the tongue as well, to remove germs and bacteria.
Flossing
Brushing doesn’t get rid of all food debris and plaque stuck between the teeth; this is why flossing is necessary. Flossing is recommended at age 4 and by 8 years old, your child should be able to floss on their own.
Eating Right
Your kid’s diet should include food rich in calcium, fluoride, and phosphorous to strengthen their teeth and gums while protecting them from decay. Frequent snacking is not advisable because cookies, candies, sodas, and similar foods can create acids that trigger a plaque attack.
Teaching your children proper oral care at a young age, with the help of a pediatric dentist in Greenville, SC, will not only enhance their overall health, but will also increase the chances of your kids growing up with a strong, healthy set of teeth that brighten their smiles.
Sources:
Oral Health For Children, colgate.com
Keeping Your Child’s Teeth Healthy, kidshealth.org
