Boys and girls should understand the importance of oral hygiene early, and implement healthy habits that allow them to care for their teeth and gums properly.
The appearance of cavities in baby teeth is becoming more and more common, although these are temporary, they can end up being transmitted to the permanent tooth. To avoid childhood cavities, early attention to oral health is essential.
The habits established in the first years of life can influence the proper development of dental well-being for a child’s oral health! Introducing the little ones to the habit of brushing is a challenging task, therefore, we present the 10 most effective tips to achieve it more easily.
Explore the fundamentals of childhood dental care and oral hygiene, from the eruption of the first baby teeth to the transition to a more independent hygiene routine.
Discover how you can play an active role in developing healthy habits that promote bright, long-lasting smiles in your little ones!
Promotes oral hygiene from birth
The arrival of a baby into the world awakens a torrent of emotions and responsibilities; it is easy to overlook a crucial aspect of children’s health: oral hygiene. It is important to clean the baby’s gums and tongue before teething; the ideal is to do it after each feeding, but especially before going to sleep.
Use a damp cloth or gauze to gently remove any milk or formula residue; this helps prevent bacteria buildup and familiarizes the baby with the sensation of a clean mouth.
Tooth brushing from the eruption of the first teeth
As the first baby teeth appear, we must introduce the toothbrush. You should use a very soft bristle toothbrush designed specifically for babies. Silicone thimbles are not effective for a complete dental hygiene routine.
Use a toothbrush according to different ages
Children’s brushes must be of quality and easy to handle for different ages. The head should be small and narrow to be able to access all corners of the mouth, the handle should be long to facilitate movement and thick to improve grip. If the handle is rubber this will prevent the toothbrush from slipping during brushing.
Babies should use children’s brushes with softer bristles; however, boys and girls can switch to children’s brushes with medium-hard bristles.
Fluoride and prevention
Fluoride plays a crucial role in preventing tooth decay, strengthening enamel, and protecting developing teeth from eruption.
Establish a good brushing routine and habit
Children learn behaviors by imitating the adults around them, so implementing daily oral hygiene and tooth brushing habits and routines will be beneficial. Include daily dental cleaning, both in the morning and at night; Instill brushing after each meal, especially if they have had sugar, juices, or sweets.
Brushing should last at least 2 minutes and reach all the places and corners of the mouth and gums. If this task becomes boring for the little ones, we can help ourselves with songs that last the established time or timers with funny voices.
Assisted brushing should last until 9 or 10 years of age
At first, fathers and mothers should be responsible for brushing their babies; after 18 months they can start doing it themselves. At this time it is important to be present when brushing to correct the technique and ensure that all teeth are clean. Brushing assisted by parents should last until 9 or 10 years of age.
Replace the brush every 3 months
The bristles of toothbrushes wear out over time and stop doing their job correctly. It is very important to replace your toothbrush every 3 months, or when you see that the bristles are worn or open. You should also change your toothbrush when you have gone through an infectious process.
Visit the dentist regularly from an early age
Schedule the first visit to the dentist when the first baby teeth appear, around the first year of age. This will help maintain a positive relationship with professional dental care.
Regular dental checkups allow any dental problem to be detected and treated at an early age before the problem worsens over time and years.
Early attention to children’s oral health can help correct speech, bite, and even breathing problems
At Stellar Kids Dentistry we will answer all your questions, we ensure the healthy and correct growth of children’s teeth and we provide you with the best advice on children’s habits and hygiene.
First consultation visit us at Stellar Kids Dentistry! Our team of professionals will be able to advise you on the best treatment for you and your loved ones.
