Child oral health is extremely important Setting our children up for success when it comes to their oral health starts as soon as they’re born. We set the foundation of healthy, beautiful teeth at a very young age. That’s why it’s so important to make the right decisions at the right times. “A child’s oral health requires different things at different ages,” explains Dr. Maryam Adibfar, a top dentist in Toronto. “What’s important during infancy is different than what’s important at age 5.”
Understanding what your child needs at which age shouldn’t be a guessing game. That’s why we’ve put together a list of great oral care tips for different age groups so you can be confident that you’re doing the right things for your children’s teeth.
Child Oral Health – Birth and Infancy: First Things First
You might be saying; “they don’t even have teeth yet!” But at this age their gums are very sensitive and need a certain level of attention to remain healthy.
– Use a lukewarm, damp wash cloth that is very soft to wipe your baby’s gums after feeding and before they go to bed. This will help prevent bacterial build up that can aggravate the gums.
– Avoid laying your baby down with a bottle for extended periods of time. This can have an impact on their gums and keep potential bacteria in contact with their gums for longer periods of time.
Best product to have on hand: A soft infant wash cloth
Child Oral Health – Age 1-2: The First Tooth
This is an exciting time in their lives.
– Brush the tooth at least once a day with fluoride toothpaste. Make sure you brush right before bedtime.
– Use a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water
– Only use a small amount of toothpaste to prevent ingestion
– Avoid drinks with added sugar
– Book your first dental appointment by age one
Best products to have on hand: Soft children’s toothbrush and dentist-approved fluoride toothpaste
Child Oral Health – Ages 2-3: They’re Getting Older
Your children are starting to get older and have more teeth. Here’s what you should be doing.
– Begin teaching them how to brush their own teeth, but be there to make sure they’re cleaned properly
– Continue to use fluoride toothpaste and brush at least twice a day, especially before bed
– When two teeth appear beside each other, you’ll need to begin flossing at least once a day
– See your dentist at least every 6 months
– Try building a strong relationship with a dentist so they can provide continued care over the course of your child’s early years
Best products to have on hand: Soft children’s toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste and soft dental floss
Child Oral Health – Ages 4-6: A Foundation for Years to Come
These years are very important to your child’s long-term oral health. Here’s how you can set them up for success.
– Continue to teach your children how to brush and floss their teeth in the most effective ways
– Teach them the importance of good oral health and how it impacts their overall health
– Help them build their own oral health routines
– Continue to monitor their brushing and flossing to ensure their teeth are properly cleaned
– Keep up with their regular dental check ups, cleanings and exams
– Strengthen your relationship with your dentist and begin asking more questions about their teeth (e.g. Likelihood of needing braces)
Next Steps
Do you have questions about how to make set your children up for oral health success? Perhaps you want to schedule their first or next check up. Either way, contact us directly! Our team looks forward to seeing you.
And don’t forget to follow Dr. Maryam Adibfar on Facebook, Google Plus and Twitter for the latest dental tips, tricks and advice!
A BONUS Just for You!
When you refer a friend, family member or colleague to our office, you’ll receive a $25 gift card to a favourite local coffee shop.
Simply contact our Davisville dental team directly to make a referral! Now that you know how to combat stains, you can enjoy your coffee or tea to the fullest.