One of your topmost priorities is your child’s health as a parent. Maintaining your baby’s oral health also plays a significant role in this.
Importance of proper oral hygiene practices
Studies show that tooth decay is linked with several other health problems, and children who have it exhibit poor performance in school. Thus, it is essential to establish proper oral hygiene practices from the very start.
Dental hygiene for infants
● Before teeth eruption, wash your baby’s gums with a soft and moist cloth after feeding and before bedtime.
● After teeth erupt, use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush to clean their teeth with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice until three years of age) at least twice a day. It would be best if you also brushed their teeth after giving them medicine. Ensure that the child does not swallow the toothpaste and spits it out.
● Floss your child’s teeth at least once a day when two of their teeth start touching each other.
● When you are done feeding your infant, remove the bottle instead of leaving it in for long durations or while they are asleep.
● Ensure that you have fluoridated drinking water or ask your dentist for fluoride supplements.
● Start dental checkups after their first birthday or when their first tooth erupts. Talk to the dentist about fluoride varnish application when appropriate.
Dental hygiene for children
● Brush your child’s teeth with a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste for at least 2 minutes. Teach them how to brush themselves and observe them while they do it.
● Floss your child’s teeth at least once a day and start teaching them how to do it, paying particular attention to the back teeth.
● If your child plays sports, ask them to use mouth guards to protect themselves.
● Avoid giving them sticky or sugary foods and drinks like toffees. If they do eat these, make sure they rinse afterwards.
● Have dental checkups every six months or as soon as you notice abnormalities like discolouration. You should also discuss dental sealant application.
