A good oral hygiene routine should begin at an early age. By teaching a child the right habits to brush and floss, dentist visits and eating, he or she can maintain these habits and promote the health of their child. smile throughout his life.
A good hygiene routine from an early age
To get your baby used to oral care, it's a good idea to start cleaning your gums from birth, after drinking from your breast or bottle. To do this, use a clean, damp cloth and gently wipe the gums.
As soon as the first teeth erupt, you must start brushing them using a toothbrush that has soft or extra soft bristles, as well as a toothpaste suitable for young children. As soon as teeth are touching, you should also floss on a daily basis and before brushing your teeth. As soon as the child has the necessary dexterity, you can show him how to brush his teeth, for example by placing with him in front of the mirror and brushing your teeth at the same time. However, you must give him the necessary supervision and make sure that he spits out all the toothpaste he uses. Your child will need supervision until the age of 10-12.
Your dental hygienist will be happy to help your child by showing them the proper technique to adopt, both for brushing teeth and for flossing.
The first visit to the dentist
The Canadian Dental Association recommends that parents visit the dentist for the first time with their child up to one year of age, or within six months of the first tooth being erupted. This first visit is essential to allow the dentist to ensure the normal development of the teething and jaws of the young child. It is also an opportunity for him to ensure that these teeth are free of cavities.
Despite what one might think, the deciduous teeth that are affected by a decay or other problem must be treated. Indeed, even if they will eventually fall to give way to the adult dentition, neglecting their treatment could cause serious infections and cause pain to the child. In the worst cases, untreated problems can hinder the normal development of permanent dentition.
Bringing a child to the dentist from an early age makes him aware of the importance of these visits and regular dental care. As parents, explain to them the purpose of these visits and make sure you do not give them any fear to encourage a good attitude. The Dents Mon Quartier team offers a full range of services in pediatric dentistry to take care of your child's dentition and provide him with all the preventive and curative care he needs.
Children's nutrition
It is known that diet has a direct effect on the development of caries, since the bacteria that are inside our mouth feed on sugary food residues and produce acids that attack the enamel of the teeth. teeth, resulting in the formation of cavities. Everyone must therefore limit the consumption of sugar that they consume. This is especially true for young children, since the enamel of their teeth is less resistant to attacks by bacteria.
So, parents need to practice these tips to prevent tooth decay in their young children:
- At bedtime, avoid giving the baby a bottle that contains milk or juice. Constant contact of teeth with sugary liquids should be avoided;
- Do not allow children to drink juices or other sugary drinks. If he is thirsty, give him water;
- Do not let the child nibble throughout the day, especially sweet foods or those containing carbohydrates. Reserve specific moments for snacks;
- Thoroughly clean the child's teeth after feeding, snacks and after each meal.
If you have questions related to the oral health of a young child, know that our team will enlighten you with pleasure. Our attention is always focused on the health and well-being of your family!
Approved by Dre Charouk
Dr. Joumana Charouk, D.M.D, is proud to offer her patients exceptional care that combines experience, efficiency and good humor.
Dre Joumana Charouk, D.M.D