If you want to protect your child from getting dental caries or experiencing premature tooth loss, you’ll need to establish proper and consistent dental health hygiene practices early. This would include regular brushing and flossing, minimizing the intake of sugary foods and drinks, and regular visits to the dentist for their checkup and kids' dental cleaning.
Tips for Protecting Your Child’s Teeth
Teach Them Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Even before your child has teeth, you can use a soft and damp washcloth to clean the gums after each feeding. As soon as the first tooth appears, begin brushing twice a day using an infant toothbrush and a fluoridated toothpaste. As soon as at least two of their teeth begin to touch each other, start flossing.
Don’t Let Them Use a Pacifier by Age 2 or 3
In case you’re not aware, allowing your child to use a pacifier even after they reach the age of 2 or 3 will seriously affect how their teeth will line up. Furthermore, this will also affect the shape of your child’s mouth. If your little one is still using the pacifier past age 3, you’ll need to talk to your pediatric dentist about it.
Watch What Your Child Eats
Candy, cookies, and certain drinks which include soda and fruit juices contain high amounts of sugar or acid that can eventually weaken their tooth enamel. This is the protective outer covering of their teeth that could potentially develop tooth decay and cavities.
Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups
Take your child to the dentist by his first birthday. The dentist will determine when your child is ready for kids dental cleaning Waxhaw to make sure that their teeth will stay clean and healthy.
Is it Time for Your Child’s First Kids Dental Cleaning?
If you need to get more information about how to keep your child’s smile healthy or when to schedule their first kids' dental cleaning Waxhaw, call Young and Polite Children’s Dentistry today.
