Caring for your kid's teeth
Caring for Your Kid’s Teeth
By Graham E. Farless, DDS
While I wholeheartedly support the designation of February as Pediatric Dental Health Month, I believe that the importance of proper care of your child's teeth is an issue that should be addressed every day from birth on. Getting an early start in regular dental care will help teach your child healthy lifetime habits.
The first dental visit should occur shortly after the first tooth appears, and no later than your child’s first birthday. Beginning tooth and mouth examinations may lead to the detection of early stages of tooth decay that can be easily treated. The first visit will also focus on prevention and bringing you up to date on the current advances in dentistry for children.
Many parents delay the first visit because they are concerned that their child may be afraid of the dentist. In my practice, we find that pleasant, entertaining visits to our office promote the establishment of trust and confidence in your child that will last a lifetime. It is critical that each member of the team understand the special concerns of young children and take the time to be empathetic to their initial apprehension, and that of their parents. From a warm and inviting office design to a cheerful and supportive communication style, the main objective is to make your child comfortable and as relaxed as possible. That includes Mom and Dad as well!
Home dental care is extremely important and I recommend that new parents begin a thorough prevention program early to avoid decay resulting from bottle or breast-feeding. Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush and water and understand that most small children do not have the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively. Flouridated toothpaste should be introduced when a child is two to three years old. Parents should continue to supervise brushing and make sure that the child uses n more than a pea-sized amount on the brush. Children should always spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.
As your child matures, we may recommend the application of sealants. These protect the grooved and pitted surfaces of the teeth, especially the chewing surfaces of back teeth where most cavities in children are found. Made of clear or shaded plastic, sealants are applied to the teeth the keep them cavity free, sealing out food and plaque, and reducing the risk of decay. Even with sealants, following the key preventive steps of regular brushing and flossing, balanced nutrition, limited snacking and regular dental visits are essential to a bright and healthy childhood smile.
