Tips for taking care of children’s teeth

What is tooth decay?

Tooth decay occurs because bacteria (microbes) in our mouths convert sugar from the food we eat into acid. When these bacteria use sugar, they make acid. Over time, the acid can cause cavities (holes) in the teeth.

Is my child at risk of tooth decay?

Tooth decay is one of the most common childhood diseases. More than 4 out of 10 children have decay in their milk teeth. Eating and drinking a lot of sugary foods and drinks puts your child at greater risk for tooth decay. But healthy habits such as brushing and going to the dentist can prevent tooth decay.

Tips for taking care of children’s teeth

Tooth decay is an important reason why children lose their teeth. One way you can help stop cavities is to teach your child how to clean their teeth when the first teeth appear. You can also help maintain oral health and wellness by not giving them too many sugary foods and drinks, and by taking your child to the dentist from an early age. Babies can develop tooth decay at a young age, especially if they can gently pull on bottles of milk or juice. It is a good idea not to use containers for sugary drinks. It is important to keep your child’s first teeth – or baby teeth – healthy. Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth. Taking care of your child’s teeth protects against tooth decay (cavities).

Problems that tooth decay can cause for children?

Tooth decay can:

• cause your child pain
• Make it difficult for your child to chew
• Make your child have a harder time at school
• Trouble with your child’s adult teeth
• Take simple steps to prevent tooth decay.
• Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months old. Start these healthy habits now to keep your child’s smile healthy!
• Wipe your baby’s gums with a clean cloth twice a day before teething
• As soon as your baby’s teeth come in, start brushing them twice a day
• Teach your child to brush twice a day
• Protect your child’s teeth with fluoride
• Give your child healthy, low-sugar foods and drinks
• Take your child to the dentist for regular checkups

Tips for taking care of your teeth

The following recommendations may also help keep your child’s teeth healthy:

Clean your baby’s teeth with a damp cloth. You can use a soft toothbrush under the age of 2 but only use water until your child reaches 18 months.

Use a baby toothbrush with soft bristles, and replace it every 3-4 months or when the bristles become worn or worn.

Once your child learns how to spit out toothpaste, use fluoride toothpaste. For children aged 18 months to 5 years, it is better to use low-fluoride toothpaste. Put a pea-sized amount on the toothbrush and brush your child’s teeth after every meal and before bed. If your child has to eat some toothpaste, it is unlikely that the percentage will cause him any harm.

By age 7 or 8, your child should be able to brush their teeth. They may need help flossing until they are a little older.

Why should a child see a dentist?

Routine checkups by a dental professional help maintain excellent dental practices and can also prevent costly and painful problems later on.

Your dental professional can teach you and your child about good food and drink options, as well as proper cleaning and flossing strategies.

It is important to have your initial checkup with the dentist while your child still has baby teeth to help implement routines that will certainly strengthen his long-term teeth that need permanent support.

When should a child see a dentist in Toronto?

• Your child should see a dentist between 1 and 2 years of age.
• Your child should also see a dental professional:
• When a possible dental problem is noticed by you or them
• Before starting contact sports activities
• If you notice dark spots in the cavities of the teeth
• If the teeth do not work together evenly.

Can illness or medication damage a child’s teeth?

Chronic illness or long-term use of certain medications may cause dental problems. If your child is receiving medication for a chronic condition, talk to your dentist about the unique treatment he or she may need.

Many medications contain ingredients that can damage teeth. For example, the antibiotic tetracycline may stain teeth if used before the age of nine, and many mouthwashes used to provide bronchial asthma medications can cause tooth decay if not brushed after use.