We all want the best for our children. That means getting them the best education that we can. It means getting them the best food and healthcare that we can. It also means giving them all the tools necessary to ensure that they have a happy, healthy smile.
Even with a positive mindset, you may not be doing quite enough to keep your children’s teeth and gums healthy and thriving. This may lead to dental emergencies where you need to quickly seek a pediatric dentist or same day dentist in Geelong. Keeping your children’s teeth healthy is an ongoing process and one that requires some knowledge and attention.
Here are four things that you should bear in mind when it comes to maintaining your child’s oral health. They can make a huge difference in not only how you help them care for their smile, but in keeping that smile bright and healthy.
Your Oral Hygiene Plays A Part
There is one thing that you should know about cavities: it could actually be possible to pass bad bacteria from a caregiver onto the child. There have been studies that show that the main bacteria behind tooth decay can be transmitted from the caregiver to the child in a number of ways.
These are often very simple means but they can make an impact on the oral health of your child. For example, mothers kiss their babies, oftentimes share utensils during eating, and more. Even simple things such as blowing on food to cool it down can mean transferring bacteria.
Over time and with a lack of care, that bacteria can have a drastic impact on the oral health of your childrens dentist. That is why it is not only imperative to take steps for proper oral health for your children but to ensure that you are maintaining optimal hygiene as well.
Besides, when you have improper dental health practices, there is a good chance that those habits will pass down over time. Make sure that you are setting a good example for your children by brushing, flossing, and taking good care of your smile.
Stick To The Basics
On the whole, this must be said: cavities are preventable. Make sure that you limit the amount of sugar that your child eats on a daily basis. This is not only limited to sweets and chocolate, but also sugary and fizzy drinks. Keeping an eye on their sugar intake will also help maintain a more effective, balanced diet.
Also, make sure that your child brushes their teeth each day. That is the single most important method for keeping cavities at bay. Make brushing teeth a fun activity by accompanying younger children while they are brushing. You can also let your older children choose toothbrushes that attract them or even let them state what kind of toothpaste they prefer.
Start Early On
It may seem like you don’t have to do much to care for your child’s smile initially. In reality, dental care for baby teeth start even before your baby’s first tooth appears. From the age of 3 months, you can start gently wiping your baby’s gums with a damp clean cloth to help your baby get ready for brushing later down the line. Once the first tooth makes its appearance, use an infant toothbrush with clean water.
When it comes to baby teeth, it is important that they are well cared for early on because these are the primary structures that will become the blueprint for what their adult teeth will be. If your child’s teeth are decayed or damaged, it can have a negative impact on their adult teeth that follow.
Beware Of Sports Injuries
If you have a child who is active in sports, make sure to get them a mouthguard that can properly accommodate them. A sudden impact can instantly cause a break, chip, or even knock teeth out, all of which results in a trip to the dentist.
But with a customised mouthguard, you can ensure that your child’s smile is protected from those sudden impacts. Besides, with a proper mouthguard, you can help ensure that their teeth won’t clatter together, which is a big factor in preventing potential concussions as well.
Having a mouthguard that fits properly is imperative for youths who play sports. Make sure that you have their safety in mind with the right mouthguard.
Consult A Dentist If You’re Uncertain
Hopefully, these tips will help point you in the right direction when it comes to caring for your child’s teeth. However, if you have any doubts of uncertainties at all, you can always make enquiries with your local pediatric dentist! Should you need help and you are just residing in the state of Virginia, there is a pediatric dentist in Fredericksburg, VA.
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