Dental Hygiene: How to Care for Your Child's Teeth
How can I best care for my child's teeth?
Good dental hygiene habits should begin before your child's first tooth comes in. Wiping your baby's gums with a soft damp cloth after feedings helps to prevent the buildup of bacteria. When teeth appear, start using a soft children's toothbrush twice a day.
Once your child is preschool-age, start using fluoride toothpaste. Don't cover the brush with toothpaste; a pea-sized amount is just right (see picture above). Young children tend to swallow most of the toothpaste, and swallowing too much fluoride toothpaste can cause permanent stains on their teeth.
Everyone in your family should take good care of their teeth. Family members with lots of cavities can pass the cavity-causing bacteria to babies and children.
Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day and adults should floss once a day. Everyone should see the dentist twice a year. Have your doctor or dentist show you the right way to brush your child's teeth.
When should I start taking my child to the dentist?
The American Dental Association recommends that parents take their child to a dentist around his or her first birthday. This gives the dentist a chance to look for early problems with your child's teeth. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children's dental health. You and your child's dentist should review important information about diet, bottles, tooth brushing and fluoride use. Visiting the dentist from a young age will help your child become comfortable with his or her dentist. It also establishes the good habit of regular dental check-ups.
Featured Links
www.ada.org
Founded in 1859, the American Dental Association is the oldest and largest national dental society in the world. Since then, the ADA has grown to become the leadingsource of oral health related information for dentists and their patients.
www.austinoralsurgery.com
Our oral and maxillofacial surgeons have undergone extensive training including a four year dental school curriculum, surgical internship, and oral and maxillofacial residency.
www.friendsofmexicogaleana.org
An introductory missionary service in Mexico for Christian youth and adults. Reaching the lost with the Gospel of Jesus Christ through Vacation Bible School, music, teaching the Word, and skills training, as well as a wide variety of construction projects.