Did you know that February is National Children’s Dental Health Month? The American Dental Association sponsors the event to improve awareness about the importance of children’s oral health needs. Although baby teeth eventually fall out, they are invaluable to your little one’s health and development. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 50% of children will experience at least one cavity. While they are almost always preventable, tooth decay is more common than childhood asthma. You can safeguard your child’s smile by introducing oral hygiene at an early age.
Oral Hygiene for Babies
It is never too early to keep your baby’s mouth clean. Use a soft, clean cloth to wipe their gums twice daily. This will remove bacteria and sugars that can lead to decay.
As your little one’s baby teeth erupt, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean their mouth with plain water twice daily. Choose a brush that accommodates the size of their mouth and has earned the ADA’s Seal of Acceptance.
Your child should have a dental checkup before their first birthday. Regular dental care allows your child to get to know their dental team for stress-free appointments. It also allows their dentist to monitor their developing smile to intervene quickly if anything concerning arises.
Oral Hygiene for Young Children
As more baby teeth erupt and your little one develops, supervise their brushing routine. They should brush their teeth for 2 minutes twice per day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Around the age of 6, their baby teeth will begin to fall out. As their adult teeth emerge, the spaces between each tooth will close, which means it’s time to start flossing every day.
Your child should continue to see their dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. Their pediatric dentist can perform cavity-prevention services during their routine appointments, like dental sealants and fluoride varnish.
About the age of 6 or 7, schedule an orthodontic consultation to ensure there are no concerns with their bite or alignment. Early orthodontics corrects issues before they turn into big problems. As a result, your child is less likely to need extensive dental work later.
Promote a Cavity-Free Smile
Besides good oral hygiene and regular dental care, you can protect your little one from cavities by limiting sugary foods and drinks. Instead, encourage plenty of low-fat dairy products to support strong teeth and bones. Offer a variety of nutritious foods to keep their mouth and body healthy.
About Dr. Isabel Biernacki
Dr. Biernacki completed her dental degree at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Dental Medicine and her pediatric dental residency at New York University Langone Health. She is also certified in Basic Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support. Dr. Biernacki is a proud member of many professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Request an appointment through her website or contact her office.