On average, children between the ages of 2-11 have 1.6 decayed primary teeth along with 3.6 primary teeth surfaces. Baby teeth, or primary teeth, are just as important as adult teeth, so it’s time to make sure your children take care of their teeth.
Wondering how to care for your children’s teeth to help them stay healthy? Keep reading to find out.
1. Teach Good Habits
We are responsible for our dental health. This is why it’s important to teach your kids good habits now. Show them the proper way to brush, and make sure they brush their teeth for at least two minutes.
Always wipe your baby’s teeth after a bottle or feeding. You should avoid putting your child to sleep with a bottle because the sugars will sit on the teeth all night. Even if your baby only has one tooth, make sure to wipe it clean after each feeding to set the tone for a healthy mouth.
As your children get older, make sure you tell them how important it is to take care of their teeth and instill brushing, flossing, and using fluoride. Let your children watch you care for your teeth and go to the dentist for regular checkups.
2. Get a Dental Checkup
Your child should see a dentist by their first birthday. Preventative care this early can save you money and get your child used to the dentist. In fact, the CDC says that dental care costs can be about 40 percent lower if a child sees a dentist by age 5.
As your child gets older, you may want to consider regular checkups with an orthodontist. Know more here about when you should consider orthodontic care.
3. Make Sure Your Child Gets Enough Fluoride
Flouride toughens enamel, which makes it harder for acid to penetrate. Some tap water is fluoridated. If your water supply is not fluoridated, you should talk to your dentist about fluoride supplements. This could also prevent sensitivity. However, if you are noticing your child is experiencing some discomfort, you can book an appointment to treat sensitive teeth with the dentist in massapequa ny.
When your child is old enough to spit, use fluoride toothpaste and fluoride rinses. Make sure you don’t give your child too much because it can discolor teeth.
4. Watch Your Child’s Diet
Some foods are bad for teeth, like candy, juices, gummies, and fruit “roll-ups.” If your child eats these foods, make sure they rinse or brush immediately to get rid of the sugar. This helps avoid tooth decay.
The same is true if your child takes liquid medicine. Have your child rinse their mouth out so the sugar doesn’t have time to sit on the teeth.
5. More Than Brushing
It’s crucial that your child brushes their teeth at least twice a day, but they also need to learn about flossing. This gets to hard-to-reach areas like in between the teeth for healthy gums.
Your kids should have a timer to make sure they brush long enough and gently. You also want to make sure they brush the front, back, and tongue.
Take Care of Your Children’s Teeth
It’s important that you start care early for your children’s teeth. Make sure they brush properly, see a dentist, and limit sugary foods and juices.
Keep checking out our site for more advice on health and lifestyle for you and your family.
