If you have kids, you must know how difficult it is to keep your child’s oral health in check. As difficult as it may be, you still have to do the job to keep your child’s teeth healthy. So, if you are struggling with it, here are some top 10 tips for keeping your child’s oral health on point.
Start Oral Care Early
Your child’s dental care should start as early as possible, even when they don’t have teeth. Make a habit of cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft cloth after feeding them. Once the first tooth emerges, brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Brush Twice a Day
Follow the basic rule of brushing their teeth twice daily: in the morning and before going to bed. The brushing should last at least 2 to 3 minutes each time. Ensure that your child covers all tooth surfaces to remove plaque and prevent cavities.
Use the Right Amount of Toothpaste
For children under 3, use a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. For kids three and older, use a pea-sized amount. Teach your child to spit out the toothpaste and avoid swallowing it.
Floss Daily
To avoid plaque buildup between the teeth, it is important for your child to start flossing once their teeth start to touch. Make it their habit to floss once a day, ideally before bedtime.
Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks
It goes without saying that sugar causes cavities and is the enemy of oral health. So, to avoid any damage caused by sugar, you should limit your child’s sugar food and drink intake. Instead, you can opt for healthier snacks such as fruits, vegetables, and cheese.
Visit the Pediatric Dentist Regularly
Schedule your child’s first dental visit with our Pediatric dentist in Gurgaon by age one or as soon as their first tooth appears. Regular dental check-ups every six months are key to monitoring and keeping your child’s oral health in check.
Protect Teeth with Sealants
Consider dental sealants for your child’s molars. These thin protective coatings can help prevent cavities in the back teeth, where food often gets stuck. Your pediatric dentist in New Gurgaon can apply sealants once your child’s permanent molars come in.
Encourage Healthy Habits
Teach your child not to suck their thumb or use their teeth to open bottles or bite hard objects. These habits can lead to dental issues like misalignment or broken teeth.
Choose the Right Toothbrush
Choosing the wrong toothbrush can cause pain and discomfort in your child’s mouth. So make sure to go with brushes designed specifically for your child’s age. The ideal brush for your child should have soft bristles and a small head.
Teach Proper Brushing Technique
Guide your child to brush gently in small circles, not scrubbing back and forth. Ensure they brush all tooth surfaces and their tongue. Supervise them until age 7 or 8 to ensure they are brushing properly.
Conclusion
It’s not that difficult to keep your child’s oral health in check. Follow these 10 simple tips to ensure that your child maintains healthy and strong teeth. If you are looking for a dentist for your child’s regular checkups, make sure to book an appointment with our pediatric dentist in DLF phase 3.
