Helping Children Stay Mouth-Healthy
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month! Starting good oral hygiene early ensures that a child’s teeth and gums remain healthy as they grow up.
A child’s primary teeth, which people sometimes call baby teeth, are just as important as their permanent teeth. Baby teeth help a child chew and speak as well as acting as important placeholders for the future permanent teeth.
Making sure that your child is taking proper care of their teeth can be a little bit tricky since there are so many things to consider and a lot of temptation for little ones. Of course, there are lots of helpful tips and tricks that can make maintaining good oral hygiene seem like a walk in the park.
Get Regular Cleanings
Your child should see the dentist every 6 months for a routine cleaning and checkup. Regular cleanings help remove any plaque buildup that can lead to problems like cavities. If dental issues are caught in their early stages, treatment can prevent any lasting or severe issues. They also provide you with more oral hygiene tips to keep your child’s teeth healthy!
Consider a Fluoride Treatment
Children can start receiving fluoride treatments as soon as their first tooth erupts. Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel. Your child’s dentist can administer fluoride treatments as another way to prevent tooth decay and cavities. Depending on your child’s needs, they can receive two to four treatments per year.
Avoid Sticky, Starchy, Sugary Foods
Limit your child’s sugar intake wherever you can. When sugar gets on the teeth, it serves as a food source for bacteria. Sticky, sugar candies are notoriously bad for the teeth since they stubbornly stay on the teeth long after eating. Instead, encourage your children to choose mouth-happy foods and sugar-free drinks!
There are these and many more oral hygiene tips that parents can learn by visiting Vacendak Dentistry! Our practice welcomes family members of all ages and will happily tailor our treatment to your child’s needs. The best thing you can do is bring your child in for regular cleanings and checkups, schedule yours today!