As parents, we only want to provide the best care possible for our children. Whether it’s on the playground or helping them practice oral hygiene, being around to guide them during their early development makes a huge difference. But it’s not something you should have to go through alone; your dentist in West Cobb wants to make the process easier.
When you know the right steps, giving your child the tools and information makes oral care easy. To celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month, take a moment to protect your child’s teeth and gums for years to come.
Why Your Child’s Oral Health Matters
Your dentist’s main concerns when it comes to oral health are the teeth and gums. Keeping these areas in check will make the development process as smooth as possible. Keep in mind that your child’s baby teeth are just as important to care for as their permanent teeth. Unfortunately, many parents assume that just because baby teeth fall out that it means preventing their decay won’t matter.
The truth is, baby teeth act as spacers while permanent teeth grow underneath the gums. If baby teeth fall out too early from decay, it causes the permanent teeth to erupt before they finish growing. This can cause their teeth to grow in crooked and cost you more money later for correction treatments. Whether your child is 1 year old or 18, preventive care is key to good long-term oral health.
How You Can Make a Difference
Before we start discussing tips to help your child at home, your children’s dentist in West Cobb wants to emphasize the importance of regular dental visits. Your child’s first visit should occur within 6 months of their first tooth erupting or by their first birthday. Once you arrive, the dentist will use the appointment to examine your child’s mouth followed by future treatments worth considering to protect your child.
Your dentist cares just as much about your child’s oral development as they do about protecting their teeth and gums. They can catch signs of early tooth decay and offer sealants and fluoride treatments as an effective preventive measure.
Tips on Proper Oral Care
After your visit, take of note of the following tips to keep your child’s oral health in order. Typically, you wouldn’t see us for another six months, so you’ll need to help them manage their teeth until then.
- For children under the age of two, use a small washcloth or finger-sized pediatric dental device to clean their mouth and teeth. Use only a smear of toothpaste no larger than a grain of rice.
- After age two, purchase a child-sized toothbrush and upgrade to a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
- To help them learn, guide their hand as they brush. Use circular motions on the front of their first before moving to the back and sides. Make sure they reach their molars once they erupt and ask them to brush their tongue.
- Establish a time for when they brush every day to help them get used to the habit. Reward them for brushing to show how much you appreciate them staying diligent.
- Brush alongside them to make it more fun. Supervise them to make sure they’re brushing long enough and using enough toothpaste.
- Download coloring activities from the ADA’s website. Have them pinned in the bathroom to act as reminder on how to brush properly.
With these tips in mind, it will be smooth sailing for your child’s oral health. Schedule an appointment with your dentist in West Cobb today!