Tips for Taking Care of Your Child’s Teeth – Pediatric Dentist in St. Louis

The novelty of having a new toothbrush and getting your child excited about brushing their teeth might fade quickly, but brushing habits are very important to establish good oral health—not just in childhood but throughout their adult lives.

The key is to introduce brushing early on and make it a habit they get used to. Some dentists recommend that you begin brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as they erupt. The earlier you can establish the habit, the less resistance you will likely get from your child.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Child’s Teeth

You can do several things to help your child develop good oral habits. Some of these include:

• Choose a soft, small toothbrush and soak the bristles before using them on the teeth. Brushing teeth should not be uncomfortable, or your little one will likely try to avoid it.
• Fluoride toothpaste is essential to your child’s oral health, but it needs to be used in moderation for their safety. All you need is about the size of a grain of rice for babies and a pea-sized amount for your child after the age of three.
• It would be best to brush your child’s teeth twice a day, once in the morning and again before bed. Using a timer, make sure they spend at least two minutes brushing. They should use great care with their molars because that is often where dental caries (cavities) develop.
• Replace your child’s toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if sick. If the brush begins to show signs of wearing down, replace it; don’t ever allow your children to share a toothbrush.
• Flossing should start when your child has more than one adjacent tooth. Instead of using the string kind, get the little picks and show them how to floss their teeth so that they can establish good habits.
• Ask your dentist if fluoride treatments are a good idea. You might not need them if you have heavily fluoridated water, but only your dentist can guide you in the right direction. You might also need to give your child fluoride supplements if your water doesn’t contain enough.
• Dental sealants can help prevent dental caries by protecting the surfaces of the teeth that do the majority of chewing. They can protect your child’s teeth from tooth decay.

Brushing is an essential part of good oral health. The earlier you introduce it into your child’s daily habits, the better. Although it may seem like one more thing that you have to get onto them about, it is well worth establishing good patterns in the beginning so they will practice good oral hygiene for a lifetime.

St. Louis Pediatric Dentistry

Taking care of your child’s teeth from an early age sets the foundation for lifelong oral health. By establishing good habits like brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, you can help prevent cavities and ensure your child has a bright, healthy smile. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we are committed to providing comprehensive dental care for children, including sedation options for those who may feel anxious or have special needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help care for your child’s dental health.