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Teeth Hygiene for Children

Caring for teeth from a young age is essential for having a strong dentition as adults. A balanced diet, with a proper intake of vitamins and minerals, is important for the correct development of teeth. Teeth hygiene should begin from as early as six months, and children should begin visits to the dentist by their first birthday.

  1. Teeth Cleaning

    • Caring for a child's dental hygiene should begin even before the eruption of teeth. Young children cannot clean their teeth alone. Parents should do it for them when they are very young (ages 0 to 3) and continue to assist them when they are older (ages 3 to 6). You should start cleaning your baby's gums before the onset of the first tooth. You can do this by gently rubbing the gums with a moist cloth to prevent the accumulation of bacteria. If the baby does not yet have teeth, there is no need for toothpaste. After the age of 3, children should brush their own teeth twice a day.

    Toothbrushes and Toothpaste

    • For a small mouth, you need a small toothbrush. The hair should preferably be flexible with rounded ends to prevent scratching of the gums. You will need to replace the toothbrush every three or four months. Bent or worn bristles do not clean well and may damage gums. Children's toothpaste should contain fluoride, which helps teeth become stronger by strengthening the enamel. As children tend to swallow toothpaste, you need to supervise them while brushing. Large fluoride intake may cause stains on teeth.

    First Visit to the Dentist

    • The American Dental Association recommends parents to take children to their first dentist visit by their first birthday. This first visit is designed to allow the dentist to examine the child's teeth even before a dental problem arises. Taking the child to regular dental check-ups is essential for preventing problems or fixing them when they are minor.

    Cavity Prevention

    • Once children have teeth, they are susceptible to tooth decay. As breast milk, infant formula and fruit juices all contain sugar that attacks teeth. You need to check your child's teeth every month and watch out for spots or dull white lines that may form on teeth. Darkening of teeth is also a sign of tooth decay. If you observe any of these signs, see your dentist immediately. Early childhood cavities need to be treated promptly; otherwise, they may lead to infections. Cavity prevention methods include regular brushing and limiting the intake of sugar.

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