Their focus is on toys, video games, or playing outside, which can make the few minutes spent brushing, flossing, and rinsing feel like an eternity to a small child. Fortunately, we have the tools to help your little one maintain a healthy smile as they grow and develop into childhood and adolescence.
We are even happy to provide helpful tips that will make practicing good oral health at home easier than ever before. It is more about you, as the parent, understanding what to expect when you bring them in for a normal dental checkup and cleaning. If you have been practicing good oral healthcare at home, it is possible to bring your child in at the age of 3 or 4. This is typically the age when they can sit still and have a better understanding of what is occurring.
One of the most common dental problems seen in infants and toddlers is known as baby bottle tooth decay. This occurs when your child is exposed too long to drinks that contain sugar. If your baby is fussy or is having trouble going to sleep at night, you may be tempted to give them a bottle to help pacify them until they calm down or go to sleep.
Unfortunately, the contents within the bottle can sit on their teeth too long and lead to tooth decay. To prevent this from happening, it is best if you:. Older children can easily develop them over time if poor oral hygiene occurs at home. Their baby teeth will not stay in forever but to make sure their permanent teeth come in correctly, these primary teeth must remain in good oral health.
To achieve this, you can help your child by:. It takes time for your child to develop the manual dexterity to effectively reach and brush their molars. Oftentimes, they are hard to reach, which is why dental sealants are an excellent way to protect these teeth from bacteria, plaque, and acids. We will paint a clear, plastic-based liquid over the chewing surfaces of these teeth, allowing it to harden in place. Fluoride is a beneficial mineral found in toothpaste, food, and even water.
