Children's oral health begins at home, in the first years of their life, under the guidance of their parents. Developing and preserving good dental habits will serve a child throughout his or her life. Dentists agree that improper oral hygiene and a poor diet during the focal 0-24 month period can lead to unnecessary tooth decay in kids.
Children's teeth start to materialize in the second trimester of pregnancy. Twenty full grown teeth, lodged under the gums, are present at a baby's birth. Parents should start immediately building effective dental practices with their baby. Damaging bacteria can be eliminated by swabbing a damp cloth over a baby's gums at the conclusion of feedings. When a child has begun to teethe, brush his or her teeth with a soft child's toothbrush once a day. Develop good feeding habits by forgoing putting a child to bed at night with a bottle. Bottle mouth, characterized by pocked or discolored front teeth, appears due to the build up of sugars from milk and juices.
Researching and employing a good pediatric dentist after a child's first birthday is important to good oral hygiene practices. Pediatric dentists sustain a balance between prevention - staving off possible complications before they advance - and maintenance - utilizing check-ups to preserve good health.
When your child's primary teeth have come out, your kids dentist may recommend the use of fluoride to prevent dental decay. Fluoride, which strengthens enamel, counteracts the effects of food residue that is not brushed away. Parents should encourage their kids to brush after taking medication due to the added sugars found in many children's medicine. Beginning at around two to three years old, children should start brushing with toothpaste and flossing under the supervision of a parent. A tiny dollop, about the size of a pea, is the suitable amount for a child.
When your child has a complete set of permanent teeth, parents may request their dentist apply a sealant, comprised of a thin wash of resin, to their children's molars, the site of most chewing. It's crucial for parents to continue to instruct their kids on the importance of eating a healthy diet complete with fresh fruits and vegetables.
Some kids need orthodontic treatment to straighten and align crooked teeth. Children, as young as seven, may be eligible for braces and other corrective devices. Starting orthodontia at a young age, when teeth are malleable and require less correction, may provide many benefits to kids.
Children should continue to see a dentist regularly throughout their teens. Encouraging your child to forgo sugary foods and engage in consistent oral hygiene, will make sure that your kids will have winning smiles.
At Upland Dental Practice our kids dentist can provide you with more information about your child's oral health.