Child's dentistry essentially starts even before the child is born. The development of a baby's teeth depends on how the mother takes care of her diet and health during her pregnancy. Eating a balanced diet with vitamins and minerals is the first rule for pre-birth child's dental care. In addition, pregnant women should undergo regular dental examination and treatment for any cavities and /or gum problems.
Teething in Children:
The child's first teeth, called primary teeth (or) Deciduous teeth, usually appear through the gums when the child is about 6 months old. By 3 years of age, all of the child's 20 primary teeth should appear. Between 6 and 11 years of age, children lose their primary teeth. The first permanent teeth i.e. molars usually appear behind the primary teeth at the age of about 6 years. The last of the molars usually erupt between the age 12 years and 21 years.
Dental Care for Baby Teeth:
The best dental care for children starts before their permanent teeth appear. Some important guidelines are listed below:
Sharing of spoons, with children transfers your oral bacteria to children by means of saliva left on these items. Provide the child with a separate set of regularly cleaned utensils for eating.
Clean your child's teeth regularly to prevent bacterial build up.
Do not let your baby sleep with bottle carrying milk, formula, or any other sugary liquid. If you leave the child's teeth in contact with sugary liquids overnight, tooth decay can result.
Breast feeding your baby before putting him/her to bed is safe for teeth. At around one year of age, encourage your baby to drink from a cup.
Fluoride Supplements:
In many areas, drinking water carries added fluoride for teeth protection. Seek the advice of a dentist to see whether to use fluoride supplements for yourself and your child. Also, if you use your own well water, have it tested for its fluoride content.
Diet for Strong Teeth:
Nutritious foods play a key role in maintaining healthy gums and development of strong teeth. These foods include whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Foods that are high in sugar and processed carbohydrates, e.g. pastries, pasta, white bread etc. should be avoided.
Mouthwashes:
Children should not be allowed to use mouthwashes that contain alcohol. Children aged six years or older can use a mouthwash containing fluoride provided that they do not swallow it.
Injuries:
Children are prone to injure their teeth and gums in play. Early loss of primary teeth will result in premature closure of the space and misaligned permanent teeth. Educate yourself on dental emergencies and safety measures for preventing loss of teeth.
Thumb Sucking/ Pacifier sucking:
Thumb and Pacifier sucking for prolonged period, during childhood will result in front teeth to deformation and protrusion from the natural arch of the gum line. If your child continues to suck his or her thumb, we can assist you to help them drop the habit.
Brushing and Flossing:
Keep in mind the following points regarding brushing and flossing teeth:
When teeth start to appear in your child's mouth, start cleaning his/her teeth with a soft wet cloth or gauze pad. Later, use a soft toothbrush and water (but not any toothpaste).
For a one year old, use very little amount fluoride toothpaste up until they are 3 years of age. Do not let the child swallow it.
At 4 years of age, your child should learn to clean his/her teeth.
Start flossing your child's teeth when you see them starting to touch together.
Use disclosing tablets off and on to check if any plaque remains on the teeth after brushing. These tablets will color any plaque left on the teeth after brushing.
Smoking:
smoking increases the risk of gum disease and Oral Cancer. It also increases the risk of complications and infection after dental surgery and can delay healing.
It’s recommended to keep your children away from active and passive smoking from an early age.
Our experienced dentists can guide you to achieve healthy teeth and healthy smiles for your little ones.
Call us at (505)585-5157 (or) email at apexdentalnm@gmail.com, fill out a form today to schedule an appointment.
