Strong and healthy teeth are crucial for a child’s overall health and wellbeing. Healthy teeth help your child eat and talk. It is necessary to encourage proper oral care from when your child is young. Teach them young to set a precedent for good dental habits even as they grow. Your child can avoid teeth problems and infections with proper oral health and hygiene. Here is a guide for how to take the best care of your child’s teeth:
Start with the gums
Caring for your baby’s teeth starts even before teething. You do not need a toothbrush or toothpaste to care for your child’s gums. Use a soft, moist washcloth or gauze to wipe the gums in the morning and evening. You could also wipe their gums after feedings. Wipe your baby’s gums to remove bacteria that may cling to gums, damaging the teeth when they start to come in.
Brush their teeth twice a day
Start brushing your child’s teeth at the first sign of teeth care. Use a toothbrush that is soft-bristled to avoid irritating their gums. You can soak the brush in warm water for a few minutes before using it to soften the bristles further.
When they are young, toothpaste the size of a grain of rice is enough to clean their teeth. When your child gets to three years old, increase the amount of toothpaste to the size of a pea. Use toothpaste that has fluoride. Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens the teeth while protecting them from cavities. Teach your child to spit out the toothpaste after brushing.
You can find ways to make brushing fun to encourage your kids to take up the habit. One way to do that is by buying them a toothbrush with their favourite cartoon character. You could also get them their favourite toothpaste flavour or reward them for brushing their teeth. These incentives will make them find brushing teeth more enjoyable.
Clean between the teeth
Clean between the teeth when they start to touch. Food remains can hide in the spaces between your child’s teeth and under the gums. To get rid of all the particles, you can use floss. Flossing will help prevent cavities between the teeth. It will eliminate any bacteria hiding in those spots that the toothbrush can’t reach. Assist your child with the flossing until they learn to do it.
Have regular dental checkups
Start making plans to visit the dentist when the first tooth appears. According to a Portsmouth dental specialist, regular checkups are useful in minimizing the chances of getting mouth diseases. They are good at spotting common diseases and dental problems. A dentist will also give you pointers on how best to maintain the child’s oral hygiene. So, find a reliable dentist to guide you on how to take care of your child’s teeth and keep cavities away.
Prioritize a healthy diet
Sugary foods and drinks are not the best for your child’s teeth. Limit the number of sodas, fruit juice and sweetened drinks your child consumes. Also, minimize sweet snacks between meals. Try to encourage them to brush their teeth after having sugary snacks. Assist your child make healthy food choices not only for their teeth but also for general wellbeing.
Final remarks
Oral and dental care is a big part of your child’s wellbeing. Care for your child’s teeth should begin as soon as possible. Use the tips above you as a guide on how to go about caring for your kid’s teeth.
