Many dentists will tell you that the key to good oral hygiene is having good habits from a very young age. Even if you’re able to do everything right as an adult, having important oral hygiene as a child can have a big impact on your teeth as you get older.
The best kind of dental care for kids is actually before a baby’s first tooth appears. The teeth are actually already there, they’re just hidden in the gums. When your child is born, they have 20 primary teeth, most of which are already formed. Parents are advised to wipe gums clean with a damp washcloth to clear away bacteria and as soon as those teeth come out, get them brushed with an infant toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste.
Building Up Good Dental Health
Plaque is the enemy where teeth are concerned. Plaque is a thin, clear film of bacteria that sticks to your teeth. The bacteria in your mouth absolutely love sugar, so as soon as it’s on your teeth, the bacteria breaks it down into acid that eats away at your tooth enamel. This can cause holes, called cavities. It can also cause gingivitis, a gum disease that can affect your gums, making your teeth loose and eventually, fall out!
The last thing anyone wants, including your kids, is teeth that are sore, full of cavities, and unhealthy gums. You’ll not enjoy eating your favourite foods and you won’t feel much like smiling either.
Parents should be helping their children with dental health because it’s an integral part of a child’s wellbeing. At Gentle Care Dentistry, we’re a dentist in Hornsby that cares, and we’ve been able to devise a few things to help to maintain a regular dental health routine for children.
● Let Your Kids Decide
One of the best things you can do is give your child some hygiene independence. Make sure that they brush their teeth twice a day but let them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste to make it “their own”.
● Get a Fun Timer
Dentists recommend 2 minutes of brushing, twice a day. Get your kids a fun little timer with their favourite cartoon character on it. This can encourage them to brush for the appropriate time, while still being fun.
● Reward Them
Don’t reward them with sugary treats, but instead something else they value. Maybe a week of good habits will get them a new toy, or perhaps get them out of doing chores. Something they value will help them see it through.
● Make the Dentist Fun
The negative connotation attached to the dentist is likely due to the occasional temporary pain some can experience. Doing something fun before or after can really help to ease the pressure on the trip, making it a better experience.
Make your children’s health an important part of growing up – Call us now! – 8411 2674
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