Getting your kids to the dentist can be like pulling teeth. Practicing good dental habits at an early age is critical in ensuring that your child grows up to have a healthy mouth. Those 20 primary teeth or baby teeth need proper attention and care, because their health impacts the development of their future smiles. Learn the best ways to take care of your child’s teeth as they grow.
Because newborns don’t have teeth, you may not consider the ways in which their oral hygiene affects their future health. Prevent your little one from cavities and Baby Bottle Tooth Decay by practicing oral care right away.
Begin by wiping their mouth with a clean gauze pad or cloth to remove plaque that can harm emerging teeth. As soon as their teeth begin to come in, brush them gently with a child’s size toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. Don’t give your infant sodas or sugary juices—opt for formula and milk instead. Make sure that they finish their bottle prior to naptime and bedtime so that you can brush before they fall asleep.
If you must put your infant to bed with a bottle, fill it with water when it is safe to do so.
Toddler age is a great time to begin teaching your child how to brush their own teeth. Developing healthy brushing and flossing habits early ensures that they maintain good oral care throughout their lives. Let your child imitate the way you brush and explain to them the importance of keeping teeth healthy. Teach them proper flossing techniques to remove food particles and plaque that they may have missed.
If your child still sucks on their thumb or uses a pacifier when permanent teeth begin to grow, you should take action. Limit pacifier use and eventually take it away completely. Talk to your child’s dentist or doctor about ways to limit thumb sucking.
There are many ways to prevent your child from developing tooth decay:
Accidents happen. Whether your child gets hurt on the playground or eats too many sweets, there are always steps to take to ensure that they remain healthy. Knowing the proper ways to handle dental emergencies can be the difference between losing and saving a permanent tooth:
As a parent concerned for your child’s health, it is important that you don’t forget about their mouth. If they suffer an accident or have missing permanent teeth, Dr. Grubb might be able to help. Call Family Implant & Reconstructive Dentistry to ask about bridges and spacers today!
Richard V. Grubb
Family Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry
203 S. Washington St.
Havre de Grace, MD 21078
New Patients:
410-942-9811
Current Patients:
410-939-5800
Monday: 8AM – 4PM
Tuesday: 9AM – 6PM
Wednesday: 8AM – 4PM
Thursday: 8AM – 4PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 8AM – 1PM (once a month)
Sunday: Closed