We get it. Parents have a lot to worry about when it comes to their children’s health and safety. Committing to daily oral hygiene will prevent the pain, inconvenience, and expense of dealing with cavities in children.
Even though most parents know the basics of children’s dental care, Staten Island Dental Care continues to see cavities in young children.
Set An Example
It’s important to make a commitment to proper oral hygiene for yourself. If you have poor oral hygiene, now is the time to change your ways so you can set an example for your child. You will both be better off.
Start (Very) Early
Caring for your infant’s teeth should begin even before they erupt. To prevent bacteria growth, parents should wash their baby’s gums with a wet washcloth after feedings.
Make The Crib A Bottle-Free Zone
Youngsters should never be put to bed with a bottle. The sugars in milk or juice that stay on teeth for hours can damage the enamel. When your child gets his first tooth, it is time to brush.
Fluoride Warning
Most pre-teens ingest toothpaste, so use only a tiny dab of non-fluoride paste until the child turns two. If a child swallows too much fluoride, it can stain teeth.
Go Over Teeth Again After the Child Brushes
When a child is old enough to brush his own teeth, instruct them to brush gently but thoroughly for at least two minutes (or longer until they get the hang of it). You can set a timer so your child understands how long they should keep at it.
For young children, it is important that an adult goes over them after the child finishes. Many little ones thoroughly clean the chewing surfaces but fail to clean the backsides and gumline.
Schedule Snacks
Monitor your child’s meals and snacks. Scheduling snacks and beverages (not including water) to set times during the day can also protect against cavities.
Toddlers should see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth erupts.
Staten Island Dental Care wants to work together to prevent childhood tooth decay.
CONTACT STATEN ISLAND DENTAL CARE – DR. FREDERICK HECHT:
718-761-5757
LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):
1520 Richmond Ave
Staten Island, New York
10314
