Tooth decay and cavities are more common in American children than any other chronic infectious diseases, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Good dental hygiene is essential for preventing cavities, plaque and other dental issues. Parents can start protecting their child's dental health almost from birth. Starting early can help your child establish a healthy routine and promote good dental health.
Brushing a Baby's Teeth
You can begin cleaning your baby's mouth before his first teeth even erupt. At first, you can use a damp washcloth or infant toothbrush to wipe your child's gums clean. When teeth erupt, brush them twice a day using a child's fluoridated toothpaste, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. For children younger than two years of age, simply smear a small-amount of non-fluoride toothpaste on an age-appropriate toothbrush. Babies should visit the dentist for the first time when their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday.
Oral Hygiene For Kids
Similar to babies, kids should brush their teeth twice a day. The proper way to brush is by angling the toothbrush 45 degrees and placing it against the gums. Then, move the toothbrush back and forth using short strokes, according to the American Dental Association.
Always brush the inner and outer teeth as well as the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. And don't forget the tongue, which should be brushed with each brushing. Your toothbrush should be replaced every three or four months or when the bristles become frayed.
Fluoride
Fluoride is important for dental health because it hardens tooth enamel, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Your child should use a fluoride toothpaste once she reaches preschool age or is old enough not to swallow the toothpaste. You can also protect your teeth by using fluoride-treated water.
Many municipalities add fluoride to the municipal water supply, but your water may not be treated if you have a private well. In this case, your doctor can prescribe fluoride tablets for children six months and older. Some schools also offer regular fluoride treatments for children.
Flossing
Good dental hygiene involves more than just brushing twice a day. Children also need to floss to remove food particles from between the teeth. Once children are old enough, they should floss at least once each day.
To floss, cut off a piece that is about 18 inches long and wrap it around one finger on each hand, according to the American Dental Association. Then, place the floss gently between two teeth and use a sweeping motion to remove food particles. Continue flossing between all the teeth, including the back of the last tooth on each side. Children who do not have the coordination to floss with loose dental floss may have more success with inter-dental cleaners.
Cavity Risks
Children are at risk for developing cavities, which are basically holes in the teeth, because they do not always take proper care of their teeth and because of their diet. Sweet, sugary foods, sticky foods and snacks--all common in many children's diets--can contribute to cavities, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Baby bottles can also pose an increased risk, which is why a baby should never be put to bed with a bottle and should be weaned from the bottle by her first birthday. Special-needs children and those born prematurely are also at an increased risk of developing cavities.
