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If you have children at home, you put a lot of thought into keeping them safe and healthy as much as possible. Making sure their teeth and gums are healthy is an important part of maintaining their overall health, but children at different stages have sometimes very different needs. Here are some tips on ensuring your child’s oral health according to the age group in which they fall.
0–2 years
- Before the first teeth come in, wipe the gums with a washcloth after feeding to help get rid of the plaque that’s present on the gums.
- Once the first baby teeth come in, brush them twice a day with water and a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Your child’s first dental visit should also be around the 12-month mark.
3-5 Years
- When helping your child brush, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and make sure they spit it out afterwards.
- This is also the appropriate age to start teaching your child the importance of brushing every day. Children’s books on the subject are a great way to help your child learn how to brush properly and why it’s important.
- If your child sucks his thumb or uses a pacifier, it’s best to break the habit by the age of 4 or 5.
6–9 years
- This is the time that the first permanent teeth start coming in. It’s important to let your child know that baby teeth have to fall out for the “grown-up” teeth to come in.
- Until your child is getting the hang of brushing and flossing, keep supervising and helping your child practice proper oral care habits.
10–12 years
- Regular visits to the dentist can catch any developmental problems that may require orthodontic treatments.
- Focus on nutritious foods and what they do for healthy teeth and gums as well as their overall health.
13+ years
- When the teen years start, talk about the importance of a healthy smile, especially as it relates to your teenager’s obsession with their personal appearance. Emphasize how a healthy smile can help them look and feel good.
- If your teenager has a strong interest in sports, emphasize the importance of using protective equipment, including the proper use of a mouthguard.
Regardless of your child’s age, regular dental visits should start right around the first birthday and continue on at least a yearly basis throughout their lives. If your child is due for a checkup, give us a call today to make an appointment.
