One of the most common misconceptions about baby teeth is that because they will eventually fall out, they don't require the same care as adult teeth.
In reality, they way your child treats their baby teeth will set the tone for proper oral health later in life. If baby teeth fall too soon because of tooth decay, for example, then the development of adult teeth may be affected. Your child's permanent teeth may not grow properly and they may require orthodontic treatment to bring them to their correct position.
As you can see, it's paramount to take care of your child's teeth and practice preventive care.
But, how can you do that exactly? Here are some tips to keep in mind when taking care of your child's oral health.
Children develop their teeth while in the womb. Even if you do not see any teeth, good oral hygiene is important from day one.
Here's what you should do:
At this stage, you should make sure your baby's gums stay healthy and clean by running a clean and damp washcloth over their gums. This will keep the mouth clean and the bacteria away.
Start brushing your child's teeth the moment the first tooth erupts. Make sure to use fluoride toothpaste to protect the enamel. Only use a small quantity to prevent your child from swallowing it.
You can start flossing when your child has two teeth that touch. This way, you can avoid any accumulation of bacteria in between the teeth.
Take your child to a pediatric dentist when their first teeth emerge. The dentist can show you the best ways you can take care of your child’s growing teeth and tell you what you can expect during this process. By regularly seeing the dentist, you can also ensure that if there are any dental issues, the pediatric dentist will be able to treat them in time and make sure your child's teeth grow healthy and properly.
Developing good oral care habits early on will reduce the risk of cavities and help your child develop strong and healthy teeth.
Daily oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits will set the tone for great oral health and teach your child about the importance of oral care.
At Cavity Patrol Pediatric Dentistry, we offer pediatric dentistry in a calm and friendly environment. We have a team of certified pediatric dentists who know how to make your child feel safe and ready to receive treatment.
Whether you are interested in prevention, or restorative dentistry or you just want to learn more about the benefits of seeing a pediatric dentist, we are here to help you.
If you would like to schedule an appointment in Cypress or Katy, don't hesitate to contact us right now and tell us what you need.