Good oral health habits for kids start before their teeth have even emerged. We advise parents to clean their baby's gums twice daily with a wet cloth to get rid of plaque that has built up and to make sure baby teeth can emerge without risk of decay or gum disease. We also advise that parents don't allow their infants to drink sugary drinks, and never to let a baby sleep with a bottle that contains anything other than water.
Introducing Your Baby to Oral Hygiene
Introducing your baby to dental hygiene is easy, just be gentle! Babies require soft-bristled brushes with water; they are not yet ready for toothpaste under the age of two. Cleaning your little one's teeth introduces them to the habit and routine of daily brushing. When they become toddlers and are ready for toothpaste, they won't be alarmed at the process.
Toddlers can begin with a toothpaste that is specially formulated for them, and they only need a small, rice-sized amount.
As they get older, no matter how meticulous your child is about brushing, it is still highly likely that they will miss spots on their teeth. Regular dental cleanings allow us to address these spots and get rid of plaque before it becomes a cavity. Only your children's dentist in Palos Heights, IL, Dr. Richard Facko, has the dental equipment and skills to efficiently remove plaque and identify dental problems like tooth decay or infection before they become an issue.
We recommend that parents bring their son or daughter at least twice a year or as directed by Dr. Facko.
Good Brushing Techniques and Habits
Establishing proper teeth cleaning habits is essential to introduce early so children can work on maintaining strong and healthy teeth. Our fantastic dental hygienist is highly skilled in dental cleanings in Palos Heights by spending time with parents and children during each visit and demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques.
Children who have parents who get involved in these routines see better rates of success than children who are left unsupervised. Here are some essential tips:
- Brush two times a day for two minutes
- Brush all sides of the tooth, including the back and top
- Floss once a day
- Understand how diet affects oral health
We Love Parents Who Get Involved
Teaching your kids how to keep their teeth and gums healthy is a collaborative between children and their parents. We always encourage that parents monitor their children's brushing and to help make it fun. At Palos Pediatric Dentistry, we are more than happy to help parents keep their children strong and healthy.
