When should I schedule my child’s first trip to the dentist? Should my 3-year-old be flossing? How do I know if my child needs braces?
Many parents have a tough time judging how much dental care their kids need. They know they want to prevent cavities, but they don’t always know the best way to do so.
Here are some tips and guidelines:
When Should Kids Start Brushing Their Teeth?
Good dental care begins before a baby’s first tooth appears. Just because you can’t see the teeth doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Teeth actually begin to form in the second trimester of pregnancy. At birth, your baby has 20 primary teeth, some of which are fully developed in the jaw.
Here’s when and how to care for those little choppers:
- Even before your baby starts teething, run a clean, damp washcloth over the gums to clear away harmful bacteria.
- When your baby gets teeth, brush them with an infant toothbrush. Use water and a tiny bit of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). Use fluoride toothpaste that carries the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. (If you are using baby toothpaste without the fluoride, keep it to the same amount because you still want to minimize any toothpaste that is swallowed.)
- When two of your baby’s teeth touch, you can begin flossing between them.
- Around age 2, your child should learn to spit while brushing. Avoid giving your child water to swish and spit because this can make swallowing toothpaste more likely.
- Kids ages 3 and up should use only a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Always supervise kids younger than 8 while brushing, as they’re likely to swallow toothpaste.
When Should Kids See a Dentist?
children see a dentist on their first birthday. At this first visit, the dentist will explain proper brushing and flossing techniques and do a modified exam while your baby sits on your lap.
Below we’ve got the best tips to ensure strong teeth in your kids. Read on for the complete guide to good dental health!
1. BRUSHING CORRECTLY STRENGTHENS TEETH
Let your child begin brushing their own teeth between the ages of three and five. Of course, you’ll need to supervise them. Make sure they brush each tooth in a little circle instead of roughly scrubbing their teeth.
Also, have them brush for at least two minutes. This may be hard when they have only a couple of teeth, but it’s a good habit to start as early as possible. Use a timer or play their favorite song to help them.
2. DON’T FORGET TO FLOSS FOR STRONG TEETH
Children can begin flossing when their teeth touch each other. You can buy disposable child-sized flossers just about anywhere. Kids like their bright colors and will enjoy imitating you if you floss your teeth as well.
3. SEE THE DENTIST EARLY AND REGULARLY
Seeing a pediatric dentist regularly helps keep your kid’s teeth strong. Their first visit should occur around their first birthday.
A pediatric dentist will be able to spot potential problems early. And your child becomes comfortable with them.
4. EAT THE RIGHT FOODS
Parents know a healthy diet is good for their kids. The same goes for their teeth.
Foods rich in calcium are vital for strong teeth. Calcium strengthens tooth enamel as well as the bones around your child’s mouth.
