We always want to give our children the best and that includes a healthy smile. No parent or caregiver wants to hear his or her child has a cavity. Follow these simple tips to keep your child’s mouth healthy and smile sparkling.
Brush Those Teeth!
The first line of defense against cavities is proper brushing. All children, yes, even infants, need their teeth and gums brushed. Infants should have their gums cleaned and wiped with a clean washcloth or wet gauze after every bottle. You can also use a wet toothbrush. Older children need to brush two times a day, for at least two minutes each time. If your child has teeth, do not put them to bed with a bottle!
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends kids visit the dentist every six months. Get your children started on the right path to oral health and make sure they see their dentist routinely.
Floss!
Every single day! It’s best to do it at bedtime so you keep that bad bacteria from sitting in your child’s mouth overnight.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
We all know candy causes cavities, but did you know foods high in acidity like certain fruits can also be harmful to teeth and gums? Limit candy to special occasions, limit the sugar, and make sure healthy foods like veggies are a dietary staple for your kiddos. Gummy vitamins can also be damaging thanks to the sugar in them. Switch to a sugar-free vitamin.
Fluoride
Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent tooth decay. Your dentist should use fluoride on your children’s teeth every six months if they are at normal risk for cavities. If your child is high risk, research recommends prescription-strength fluoride every three months. Your dentist will be able to evaluate your child’s needs.
Sealants
Teeth have deep grooves that can sometimes be nearly impossible to perfectly clean. Sealants are a plastic resin that are applied to the back teeth and other areas that may be prone to cavities. Sealants typically last several years, but should be checked at each dental appointment.
These simple steps should keep your child cavity free!