You must not underestimate the importance of healthy dental habits for your little one. Tooth decay can develop as soon as your baby’s first tooth erupts from the gumline.
If a baby loses teeth too early, it might cause their existing teeth to shift, which may prevent adult teeth from emerging. Also, it might lead to unnecessary pain and even life-threatening infections.
Help your son and daughter develop a healthy, white smile by reading the following advice on how to protect your baby’s oral health.
Use a Fluoride Toothpaste
You must start brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as their first tooth emerges. Purchase a soft baby toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to care for their oral health. Ensure you only use a smear of the toothpaste, which should be no bigger than a grain of rice, and brush their teeth for two minutes, twice per day.
Once your child is three years old or over, you can apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste onto their toothbrush. Also, you must encourage them to spit out the toothpaste and avoid rinsing their mouth with water.
Attend Routine Dental Appointments
Once your child’s first teeth appear, you must take them along to a dentist for a check-up. It will allow them to become familiar with the environment, and a dentist could potentially spot and stop any potential oral health issues at an early stage. Ask your dentist how often your child should visit for a check-up.
Provide an Open Cup
Most qualified dentists will recommend that babies and children use an open cup each day, as it will protect their teeth and oral health. An open cup is a healthy alternative to sippy cups that can damage a baby’s teeth and gums gradually. The sippy cup spout can push against a child’s teeth during the sucking motion and increase their likelihood of tooth decay or crooked teeth. As babies are still developing their fine and oral motor skills, you can purchase open baby weaning cups to encourage healthy drinking from as young as four months old.
Minimize Sweet and Sticky Foods
Limiting your child’s consumption of sweet and sticky foods will prevent the development of tooth decay. It is essential to minimize their consumption of sugary treats, such as cookies, candies, chocolate, and fruit roll-ups. Also, you must bear in mind that sugar is found in many savory foods, such as chips, tomato sauces, salad dressings, and crackers.
Encourage Your Child to Sip Water
Once your child turns one, you can incorporate other liquids into their diet. However, you must encourage your child to only sip water when thirsty throughout the day. If they want juice, ensure they only drink it during mealtimes to protect their oral health, and they shouldn’t drink more than four ounces daily. Also, never send your child to bed with juice or milk. Only provide water if they are thirsty at night to help their teeth remain healthy, white, and strong.
