Many parents believe baby teeth are unimportant because they will shed anyway. However,  dental decay in primary definition not only causes discomfort and pain to the child but can lead to future dental problems and issues in the permanent dentition as well. For this reason, parents must start caring for their children’s teeth from the moment they erupt. Practising good oral hygiene is not only essential for adults but children of all ages as well.

Good Dental Habits To Adopt:

Brushing Twice A Day

One of the most essential habits that you can inculcate in your child to prevent dental decay, is to brush twice a day. Your child may need assistance with brushing until the age of 7 to 8 years. During this time, you can teach them how to properly brush their teeth and ensure they clean all surfaces of the teeth, both in the front and at the back of their mouth. Use a brush with a smaller head and a larger handle that is easier for the child to grip and promote elliptical or circular brushing techniques. Ensure your child places the brush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth and gently cleans the gum line area as well.

Limit Sugar Intake

Sugars when left in the mouth for a long period, are broken down and consumed by bacteria in the oral cavity. These bacteria then produce an acid which dissolves tooth enamel and leads to dental decay and cavitation. To prevent dental decay, it is advised to limit the sugar intake of your child. Always ask your child to rinse thoroughly and brush their teeth after they have consumed candies and sugars.

Avoid Giving A Bottle Before Bed

Milk and sweet beverages that are given at bedtime in a bottle to children lead to baby bottle caries. The sugars in these beverages coat the child’s teeth overnight and allow bacteria to produce an acid that dissolves teeth. This usually results in cavities of the front teeth.

Regular Dental Visits

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises parents to take their child to the dentist around the time of the child's first birthday. This helps the child become familiar with the environment and prevents them from developing phobias related to the dental clinic.

Use Of Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride helps to remineralize and strengthen the teeth. This is why fluoride therapy is especially recommended for children who are prone to caries. However, if too much fluoride is ingested, it can lead to fluorosis in the dentition of young children. For this reason, the ADA recommends only using a smear of fluoride toothpaste which is about the size of a grain of rice, for children under 2 years of age. By the age of 3, most children can spit, so the chances of excess fluoride ingestion are reduced significantly. For this reason, the ADA recommends using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for children above 3 years of age.

Conclusion

Adopting good oral hygiene habits will help children maintain their pearly whites and avoid dental procedures. This will also reduce chances of infections, swelling and inflammation in the mouth and keep your child’s dentition in excellent condition.

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