Healthy Mouth Habits for Young Children
Your child’s baby teeth are at risk for decay as soon as they first appear—which is typically around age 6 months. Tooth decay in infants and toddlers is often referred to as baby bottle tooth decay. It most often occurs in the upper front teeth, but other teeth may also be affected.
Teach your child these simple, yet important, habits that will keep their mouth healthy.
1. Caring is not sharing.
Be mindful of using your child’s utensils and cleaning pacifiers with your mouth. Cavities are, in fact, contagious, and can be spread through germs alone. It’s that easy, and easier yet to prevent.
2. Drinking water.
Giving children water as their main drink early on helps to instil that habit in them for later, plus the natural fluoride in water helps to protect their teeth from cavities.
3. 2 minutes + 2 times per day brushing.
As soon as your child is able to brush their own teeth, let them. Teach them proper technique and reinforce adequate amount of time spent brushing. Ensure the toothpaste they’re using has fluoride and is age appropriate. At an early age, it’s best to supervise their brushing and make sure you use a small amount of toothpaste as they will swallow it.
4. Help prevent tooth decay.
Consult with your dentist to find out if your child should have dental sealants or fluoride varnish to prevent this occurrence.
5. Encourage regular cups.
Instead of sippy cups, try to get your child to drink out of a regular cup by their first birthday.
Last, but certainly not least, teach your children that good dental care is fun, not a chore! Turn it into a game, sing a song, dance around, or give a listen to a brushing playlist for their enjoyment!
If you need any further advice on your children’s dental health, give us a call on 020 88884401.
