How to take care of child`s teeth at an early age?

Dental
1

The most commonly asked question for parents is: How to take care of a child’s teeth at an early age?

Oral health maintenance begins earlier than parents think.

Child teeth help in different ways, like

  • Speech development
  • Chewing function
  • Guide the eruption of permanent teeth
  • Maintain oral health

1. When should a child’s first dental visit be?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and the American Dental Association (ADA) recommend visiting a dentist within 6 months of the eruption of the first primary teeth in the oral cavity.

  • It helps a child to adapt to the dental environment.
  • Check normal eruption of teeth and early signs of decay.
  • Help to guide parents regarding preventive measures and diet counseling.
  1. When to begin brushing a child’s teeth?
  • Start as the first teeth erupt in the oral cavity.
  • Use a cloth and water to clean gums and teeth.
  • Use a soft-bristle toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Brushing in a gentle circular motion, covering all tooth surfaces.
  • Brush twice a day

3. How much toothpaste to take?

This is a confusing for parents but important aspect of oral hygiene.

  • Below 3 years: smear layer of toothpaste
  • 4-6 years: size of rice grain toothpaste
  • Above 6 years: Pea-sized toothpaste

Care should be taken to prevent the child from ingesting excessive amounts of toothpaste.

An adequate supervisor should be provided to the child while brushing.

4. Should fluoridated toothpaste be used in children?

Yes, fluoridated toothpaste helps to

  • Strengthen enamel
  • Reverse early signs of decay
  • Reduce future risk of decay

The CDC recommended the use of fluoridated toothpaste at 2 years of age.

According to the ADA

  • <3 years - toothpaste with a fluoride level of 1,000 ppm.
  • >3 are advised to use toothpaste with a fluoride level of 1,350-1,500 ppm.

5. Common mistakes to avoid by parents

  • Excessive consumption of sugar in the diet.
  • Bedtime bottle feeding with sugary milk.
  • Ignoring early signs of decay.
  • Considering primary teeth as temporary ones, ignoring the need for treatment.

Taking care of teeth requires minor steps rather than complicated steps.

Do you think enough awareness exists among parents regarding early oral care for children?

MBH/PS