CARE FOR YOUR CHILD’S TEETH

Good preventive care involves many more factors than brushing and flossing. These include:

Oral habits –

In spite of the fact that pacifier use and thumb sucking generally cease over time, both can cause misalignment of the teeth.  In the event that a pacifier must be used, it should be an “orthodontically” correct model.  As a result, the risk of developmental problems such as narrow roof arches and crowding will be minimized.  In order to stop thumb sucking, a pediatric dentist can suggest a strategy (or provide a dental appliance).

Brushing –

Brush your child’s teeth at least twice a day with a soft bristled brush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.  It is recommended that parents assist their children with brushing until they reach the age of seven and are capable of reaching all areas of the mouth on their own.  It is always recommended that parents choose toothpaste that has been approved by the American Dental Association (non-fluoridated before the age of two, and fluoridated thereafter).  After feeding babies, parents should rub the gum area with a clean cloth.

Diet –

Children should be given a nourishing, well-balanced diet by their parents.  It is recommended that very sugary diets be modified and that continuous snacking be discouraged.  Bacteria in the mouth ingest leftover sugar particles after each meal and produce harmful acids that erode tooth enamel, gum tissue, and bone if they are not controlled.  When possible, avoid sugary snacks and offer low-fat yogurt, celery sticks, and carrot sticks as alternatives.

General oral hygiene –

Parents sometimes clean pacifiers and teething toys by sucking them.  As well as eating utensils, parents may share them with their children.  Parent-to-child transmission of harmful oral bacteria increases the risk of early cavities and tooth decay.  Whenever possible, wash toys and pacifiers with warm water and avoid sharing spoons.

Flossing –

Cavities and tooth decay are easier to form between teeth.  The child is therefore at risk for developing between-teeth cavities wherever two teeth grow adjacently.  During flossing, a pediatric dentist can demonstrate correct head positioning and provide tips for making the process more enjoyable.

Sippy cup use –

During the transition from baby bottles to adult drinking glasses, sippy cups are an excellent transitional aid.  As a result, small amounts of sugary fluid continually swill around young teeth when sippy cups are filled with milk, breast milk, soda, juice, or sweetened water – resulting in continuous acid attacks to the tooth enamel.  A child should stop using a sippy cup between the ages of twelve and fourteen months – or as soon as they can hold a glass of water.

Fluoride –

In addition to preventing mineral loss, fluoride promotes remineralization of tooth enamel.  Fluorosis is a condition where white specks appear on the permanent teeth when too much fluoride is consumed, and tooth decay occurs when too little fluoride is consumed.  Getting the fluoride balance right is crucial.  If necessary, the pediatric dentist can prescribe supplements based on the child’s current intake.

You should consult with your pediatric dentist if you have any questions or concerns regarding the care of your child’s teeth.