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How to Take Care of Your Children's Oral Health

October 28, 2022

Cavities are a common occurrence among children across the United States. Failure to treat the cavities may lead to pain and other infections. Also, your child may be unable to play, learn, speak and eat properly. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent cavities.

Keep reading to learn how to care for your child's dental health.

Start Early

Start proper dental care for your child before the appearance of the first tooth. Early care is important since your child will start forming teeth during the second trimester of the pregnancy. By the time the child is born, they already have 20 teeth within the jaw.

Before teeth become visible, use a clean washcloth to wipe your child's gums. Regular wiping removes dangerous bacteria from the infant's mouth. Then, start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears.

Use Fluoride

Fluoride is an important substance that improves your child's dental health. The substance can prevent the occurrence of cavities in primary and permanent teeth. Fluoride also increases the strength of teeth through enamel hardening. Hence, always put a small amount of fluoride toothpaste on the toothbrush before brushing.

Your child can get fluoride by drinking tap water since most cities add fluoride to the water. Another source of fluoride can be an oral supplement. Reach out to a doctor to determine if your child needs a fluoride supplement.

However, you must limit the amount of fluoride that finds its way into your child's mouth. Excessive fluoride can stain and damage your child's teeth.

Brush the Child's Teeth Regularly

Brush your child's teeth early in the morning and later in the evening. Initially, you can help the child to brush their teeth. Even if your child is brushing their own, continue to supervise the exercise until they have made a habit of doing so correctly. Another excellent idea is to floss the child's teeth at least once a day. In addition, teach the child to rinse their mouth with water after meals and snacks. The water will help to dislodge food particles from the teeth.

Limit Some Foods

Certain types of food can be dangerous to your child's oral health. The common culprits are candy, juices, and any other sugary food. Sugary foods can corrode the tooth enamel and lead to cavities. If your child consumes sugary foods, ask them to wash their mouth immediately to get rid of any sugar in the mouth.

Choose the Correct Toothbrush

Select a toothbrush that is ideal for your child's age. Toothbrushes with tiny oval heads and soft bristles are perfect for children aged 2 to 5 years. Some toothbrushes even contain fun designs, such as cartoons, that may be attractive to a child.

Choose either a manual or electric toothbrush, provided that you will use it correctly. Proper use means angling the bristles towards the gum and moving the brush in a circular motion. Also remember to brush the inner and outer sides of the teeth, the chewing surfaces, and the tongue.

Don't Clean the Pacifier with Your Mouth

If you're like most parents, you will probably clean the soother with your own mouth. However, your mouth cannot get rid of bacteria in the pacifier. Instead, you will expose your child to more bacteria from your mouth. The result is that your child may contract dental diseases and other medical problems. The best option is to use clean water to wash the pacifier after use.

Improve Your Child's Dental Health

Dental health plays a key role in any person's overall well-being. Hence, you must begin the process early for your child. Henderson Family Dentistry can help you treat your family's dental problems at affordable rates. Contact us for more information.

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