Here at Stretford Road Dental Practice, we are focused on preventive dental care as well as offering a wide range of treatments for any dental issues. We understand that parents are concerned with taking good care when it comes to protecting the oral health of their children, so we have created this guide on the best steps to take. If in any doubt, the dentist in Urmston is happy to give tailored advice that addresses any specific issues when it comes to taking care of children’s teeth.
Clean at home
It is important to develop a regular brushing routine at home. This can be done from when the child has their first tooth or just a couple of teeth. A soft toothbrush is best for very young children, and parents should choose a fluoride toothpaste that is appropriate for the age of the child. The dentist in Urmston can recommend specific products for those who need further guidance.
Brushing should be done twice every day, in the morning and evening. If the child still has milk before bedtime, it is important to ensure that the teeth are cleaned after they have had their drink. This is because milk that is allowed to sit on the teeth overnight can make them more vulnerable to deterioration and to developing cavities.
If a child is a little reluctant to have their teeth brushed or to brush themselves, the best thing that parents can do is to model the behaviour themselves. They should let their children see them cleaning their own teeth regularly, so that they see it as a normal activity and one that is easy to copy.
Make time for check-ups
Children should be registered with a dentist around a year old, from which point they should start attending for regular check-ups. This is a good idea for two reasons. Firstly, these appointments allow us to monitor the health of a child’s teeth and gums and identify any possible issues. Secondly, they allow the child to get used to coming to see us so that it is not a big deal, and a normal part of the healthcare routine. This means that as adults, they will be more likely to continue to go for regular check-ups and thus will probably enjoy better oral health throughout their lives.
Check-ups also offer a great opportunity for asking questions. Parents can get advice on brushing technique, and which are the best tools to use, as well as tips on what foods and drinks should be kept to a minimum in order to keep the teeth and gums healthy. Children are also encouraged to ask questions about their teeth and how we and they can take the best possible care of them. As most children enjoy nothing more than asking questions, this should prove to be an enjoyable experience for them.
Develop the habit of drinking water
Water is the best beverage for protecting oral health. If children are encouraged to get into the habit of drinking it as their go-to beverage from their earliest days, rather than juice or fizzy drinks, they are much more likely to have healthy teeth and gums.