
(NAPS)—For most parents, happiness is seeing a smile on their child’s face—right from that first gummy grin. Instilling good dental hygiene habits early can help protect your child’s precious smile.
Your dentist can help. Most dental plans cover children, starting
at birth. And since February is National Children’s Dental Health
Month, now is a great time to brush up on the topic. Here are some hints
that can help:
Baby Their Baby Teeth
Even though baby teeth
eventually fall out, they still matter. Decay and other problems can set
the stage for dental problems in adult teeth.
To help prevent decay in baby teeth, never put baby to bed with a
bottle. Milk and juice break down into sugars, which can pool around
their teeth and cause cavities.
Even before the first tooth pops up, get in the habit of gently
wiping baby’s gums with a clean, moist cloth after feedings and before
bedtime, to prevent bacteria from growing.
Concerned about pacifiers and thumb-sucking? Both can contribute
to an overbite. The Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that
children stop all sucking habits by 36 months or younger. But pacifiers
put less pressure on the teeth than thumb-sucking, and they’re an easier
habit to break.
Year 1: First Toothbrush, First Dentist Visit
When
that first tooth pops up, it’s time for baby’s first, soft-bristled
toothbrush. Also, per the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, brush gently
with plain water or just a drop of toothpaste with fluoride—no bigger
than a rice kernel. Be sure to schedule your child’s first dental
appointment soon after their first birthday, too. Early visits can help
them become comfortable with your dentist and reduce anxiety down the
road.
If your child is especially fearful or has special physical or
developmental needs, consider a pediatric dentist. They have years of
specialized training in child psychology and development.
Age 3 And Up: Make Brushing Fun
By age 3,
kids can begin using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste with fluoride.
Make brushing and flossing a fun daily experience: once in the morning
and once at night. Remember that it’s difficult for little hands to use a
toothbrush correctly—and at a 45-degree angle. They’ll need your help
for quite a while.
Try setting a timer for two-minute brushing sessions. You can
brush together, have a special brushing song, and treat your kids to a
colorful character toothbrush. With a little creativity (and much
patience), brushing can be a positive, feel-good experience.
A “Silver Lining” For Cavities
A cavity or
tooth decay can result when tooth enamel breaks down. Although most
cavities are preventable, tooth decay is the most common childhood
disease of children aged 6 to 19.
The good news? Dentists now have a painless way to deal with
cavities. “An application of silver diamine fluoride can effectively
slow or stop the tooth decay process in its tracks,” says Dr. Gregory
Theis, Director, Dental Services, Delta Dental of Wisconsin.
Applying the antimicrobial liquid is quick and easy. And, because
it can prevent the loss of a tooth, many dental plans cover two
applications per year.
Teens’ Teeth Need TLC, Too
Teenagers are
known for their big appetites and busy schedules. They often grab
whatever food comes their way—including sticky sweets that tug on
braces, and sodas or sports drinks that can erode enamel.
Do your best to offer healthier meal and snack options at
home—and don’t let your teen skip dental or orthodontic appointments. If
you’re weary of reminding your teens to wear their elastics or to stop
chomping on ice and sticky sweets, give your dentist or orthodontist a
heads up—and let them help reinforce healthy choices at the next
appointment.

“Dentists now have a painless way to deal with cavities. “An application of silver diamine fluoride can effectively slow or stop the tooth decay process in its tracks,” says Dr. Gregory Theis, Director, Dental Services, Delta Dental of Wisconsin.http://bit.ly/38YPQro”