How To Care For Your Child's Teeth
Author: Gen Wright
Dental care for your little one should begin even before his first tooth appears. And because the quality of a child's oral health depends on the parent, it's up to you to promote regular dental care at an early age. This means teaching your child proper oral hygiene, including the importance of regular brushing and flossing, as well as promoting healthy eating to prevent tooth decay.Teaching your child to protect his teeth and gums combined with routine visits to the dentist will reduce his risks of cavities both now and in the future. And while not an easy task, with the help and support of your dentist, you can achieve optimal dental health for your child.Tooth Brushing Made FunGood, quality dental care can never start too early. In fact, you'll want to start cleaning your child's teeth with a soft damp cloth as soon as his first tooth erupts. As more appear, use a small soft-bristled brush to gently clean the teeth. When using toothpaste, you'll want to be careful not to let your child swallow too much fluoride as this can cause permanent staining on the enamel of permanent teeth. Use only a small pea-size amount and teach your child early to spit the toothpaste out. If the child is too young and swallowing is a risk, use non-fluoride toothpaste until the child is older. Since children begin needing supplemental fluoride by the age of six months to keep teeth strong, ask your dentist about fluoride supplements to keep his teeth healthy.When your child is old enough, usually around the age of six, introduce him to brushing and flossing on his own. Brush twice a day to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay, and make it fun by brushing your teeth together. Purchase a fun, colorful brush for your child and choose flavorful toothpaste. Doing so will make daily dental care more enjoyable for both you and your child, and you can feel confident about the health of your child's teeth. Cavity Prevention For Little MouthsGood dental habits and a healthy diet play a large role in the overall health of teeth and gums, especially for young children. A balanced-diet with proper levels of calcium and fluoride can help your child develop strong, decay-resistant teeth. And because plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and cavities, you'll want to be aware of the foods and poor dental habits that can have harmful effects on the health of your child's teeth. Limit sugary foods and drinks, and promote healthy eating by introducing fruits and vegetables into your child's diet early. Always brush your child's teeth at bedtime, refraining from eating and drinking after to avoid plaque build-up throughout the night. Routine Trips to the DentistAccording to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should see a dentist by the time his first tooth appears and not later than one year of age. Choose a dentist that specializes in pediatric dental care, as these dentists are qualified to deliver gentle dental care specific to a child's needs.Visiting the dentist at an early age will ensure any dental problems are detected early with your child's teeth. And more importantly, it will establish the good habit of regular dental check ups and good oral hygiene. About the Author:
Sean Hartmen writes for this dentist Greenbelt, Greenway Dental Group. This Greenbelt cosmetic dentist offers an array of dental services, including routine dental care and cosmetic dentistry to help patients achieve their most beautiful, healthy smile. Kids and Contagious Skin Rashes: What Can They Catch How To Obtain Childcare Vouchers Dealing with Picking Eating by Your Toddler For Expecting Mothers Educational Toys Games Have Become The Ultimate In Learning Toys Child Brain Development Can Be Assisted Through The Use Of Infant Educational Toys Organic Baby Clothes Fish Oil Benefits for Children and Adults Learn To Write: Tips On Getting Your Children's Book Published! Teaching Kids About Puppies Using A Dog To Teach Your Children Responsibility A Double Baby Buggy Offers Great Style and Comfort Traits Of Pre-teen Aggressive Boys