Protect Your Child from Tooth Decay
Help protect your child from tooth decay by following the steps below:
1). Visit your dentist. Take your child to visit the dentist by your child’s first birthday. Dental problem can begin early. Once a child’s diet includes anything besides breast-milk, erupted teeth are at risk for decay. Your dentist can advise you about preventative measures, such as fluoride treatments and tooth sealants. The earlier the dental visit, the better chance of preventing problems.
2). Practice good nutrition. Avoid sugary foods and beverages. Drinking juice or sweet drinks from a bottle should be avoided. Fruit juice should only be offered in a cup with meals or at snack time. Children should not fall asleep with a bottle containing anything other than water. Soaking baby’s teeth in sweet liquids promotes tooth decay.
3). Teach dental hygiene. The sooner the better! As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using non-fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age appropriate sized toothbrush. Use fluoridated toothpaste when they are able to avoid swallowing the toothpaste. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a “pea-size” amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s tooth brushing. Remember that your children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively. Start your child now on a lifetime of good dental habits.
1). Visit your dentist. Take your child to visit the dentist by your child’s first birthday. Dental problem can begin early. Once a child’s diet includes anything besides breast-milk, erupted teeth are at risk for decay. Your dentist can advise you about preventative measures, such as fluoride treatments and tooth sealants. The earlier the dental visit, the better chance of preventing problems.
2). Practice good nutrition. Avoid sugary foods and beverages. Drinking juice or sweet drinks from a bottle should be avoided. Fruit juice should only be offered in a cup with meals or at snack time. Children should not fall asleep with a bottle containing anything other than water. Soaking baby’s teeth in sweet liquids promotes tooth decay.
3). Teach dental hygiene. The sooner the better! As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using non-fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age appropriate sized toothbrush. Use fluoridated toothpaste when they are able to avoid swallowing the toothpaste. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a “pea-size” amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s tooth brushing. Remember that your children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively. Start your child now on a lifetime of good dental habits.