Tooth tips for tots

Just like adult teeth, baby teeth are prone to cavities, so having good oral hygiene from the outset is crucial. Besides, teaching your child oral hygiene early enough will help them get used to the routine. Here are a few tips on how to care for your baby’s teeth.

Brush every day with fluoride

Fluoride is safe for children. The natural mineral toughens the enamel to prevent acid penetration and decay. Introducing it early in your child’s life can offer extra protection for developing teeth. However, be careful as too much fluoride can discolour the teeth. Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for two toddlers until age 3, when you can increase it. At first, soak the toothbrush in warm water to soften the bristles before helping them brush.

Don’t share germs

Children are born free of the bacteria that are responsible for tooth decay; rather, it’s the adults who transfer it to them. You can avoid transferring them to your child by not kissing them on the lips or share utensils (e.g. spoons, bottles, cups, etc.) with them. Be sure to sanitize all items that may be going to your baby’s mouth to avoid bacterial infections.

Limit sugar

Kids who eat a lot of sugary food are at higher risks of cavities. Sugar sticks on the teeth and develops into bacteria which produces acid, causing tooth decay. Avoid giving your child sweet treats and if you do, try foods containing sugar alternatives. Sugar alcohols such as xylitol can actually boost your dental health. If your child does have sugar, ensure they brush their teeth afterwards. The same goes for taking sweetened liquid medicines – always have them rinse and brush afterwards.

No bedtime bottles

Cavities occur when oral bacteria produce acids that attack and erode the enamel. These bacteria feed on sugar found in breast milk and baby formula. Well, these are important for babies’ growth and development. However, if a baby sleeps with a bottle containing sweet baby milk and formula, the liquids bath the teeth with sugars all night; eventually, the sugar will lead to the development of cavities.

Discourage thumb sucking

Thumb sucking is a completely normal habit that a baby can develop even before birth. They use the habit to make contact with and explore their environment. However, if thumb sucking goes past the age of three, it can affect the alignment of their teeth and how their jaws come out. The finger or pacifier resting on the gums can interfere with normal tooth eruption. Look for ways to break the habit, such as distracting them and offering gentle reminders to stop and reward them when they stop.

Visit the dentist regularly

Most parents do not take their children for dental visits before two years, but it’s important to have a dental appointment much earlier than that. Children should have their first dental visit within six months of the eruption of their first tooth or by age 1. Your dentist will educate you on how to care for your baby teeth. Early assessment will allow any developing issues to be diagnosed and treated early.

Bottom Line

There are many oral hygiene tips parents can use to keep tots teeth in perfect condition. From brushing every day and giving them less sugary foods to regular dental visits, promoting healthy habits from childhood is very important. Apply these habits now, and your child will benefit for their whole lives.