“It’s just a baby tooth. It will fall out and a new one will grow.” This is a very common thought when thinking about dental hygiene for infants.
Good oral hygiene is important for good overall health. Children develop good oral health hygiene when they receive the tools and develop good habits early on. Here is a timeline to promote good oral health from birth to adulthood.
Infancy
Start good habits early by gently wiping your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth or finger brushing after feedings to remove bacteria. This will also get them used to brushing when they have teeth. Avoid putting sugary drinks, including juices, in your baby’s bottles and make sure bottles are finished before putting your child to bed. Consider introducing a training or sippy cup to them at about 6 months so they can learn how to use the cup and be weaned off a bottle easily when their doctor recommends it.
First Tooth Through Age Three
Start brushing your child’s teeth at morning and night during this time. Use a soft bristle toothbrush with a smear of toothpaste. This is also a good time to make your child’s first dental visit. A dental professional can recommend a good toothpaste and/or fluoride treatment. Always consult a professional, like your child’s pediatrician, for oral hygiene needs.
Age Three and Beyond
Your child has a mouthful of teeth that helps them eat solid foods, speak and smile. These baby teeth are the placeholders for their permanent teeth. Children should be brushing twice a day with adult supervision. Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and brush for two minutes. Set a timer or play a song to help them manage the time. Continue to monitor brushing until your child can spit and rinse without swallowing.
This is also the perfect time to introduce flossing with adult assistance. Also encourage your child to eat fruits, vegetables and foods that are low in sugar and limit snacks, candy, juice, soft drinks and sticky treats. And remember, water is the best drink for your child’s teeth.
Adulthood
Caregivers can transfer cavity-causing bacteria from their own mouths into their children’s by kissing, sharing utensils and sharing food and drinks. This also includes putting the child’s pacifier in your mouth and then giving it to them to use. Adults should follow the same oral health care as children, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Get dental checkups and cleanings and limit sweets and sugary drinks. Children will learn from your dental habits!
Bad oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, which is one of the most common childhood diseases. By following a few easy guidelines and making regular visits with your child’s pediatrician and dentist, good oral health can lead to great overall health and beautiful smiles!