We love seeing your little ones at Edge Dental Care. We believe in starting healthy habits as young as possible.
Tooth decay can start as soon as the first tooth appears. Our easy to follow tips will help create healthy habits in your children’s lives.
- Start early – Start oral care for your baby during the first few days after birth by wiping the gums with a clean, moist gauze pad or washcloth at least twice a day.
- Brush twice daily – Your child should brush their teeth for two minutes twice daily to help reduce their risk of tooth decay and gum disease. An adult should supervise brushing until a child has the skills to tie their own shoe laces.
- Limit sugar – Try to limit your child’s in take of sugar to approximately 3 teaspoons daily. The harmful bacteria in our mouths turn the sugar into acid that causes enamel to soften, then eats away at the enamel on our teeth. As the harmful bacteria spread and overpowers the healthy pH in saliva, our mouths become much more susceptible to cavities and gum disease.
- Don’t rinse immediately – Your child should not rinse with water straight after brushing. They should spit out any excess toothpaste instead.
- Use the right amount – Easily measure the right amount of Fluoride toothpaste – the size of a grain of rice for children younger than 3, and the size of a pea for children over 3.
- Replace your brush regularly – You should replace your child’s toothbrush every 3 months or when the bristles are worn-looking or missing.
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When should I take my child to the dentist?
Generally children should see a dentist by the time they’re one or when their first tooth comes through, whichever happens first. After that, your dentist will let you know how often to bring your child for a check-up – usually every 6-12 months.
Dr Sara is the most gentle dentist you will ever meet, so start looking after your children’s teeth and book your check up today.