Take care of your child’s teeth so that they can enjoy good oral health for life.

One of the best things you can do for your child is teach them to take care of their teeth and gums from an early age. By showing your child how to look after their smile and setting a good example for them, you can help to set them up for optimal wellness in the long-term. Read on for our top tips on maintaining the condition of your child’s smile, and learn what you can do to establish healthy habits from the time that they are young…

1.  Encourage a balanced diet

When it comes to maintaining your child’s oral health, nutrition plays an important role. It’s advisable that you and your children eat a balanced diet that is high in whole, nutritious foods and that you limit sugary and acidic foods. Sugary foods and drinks contribute to the build-up of plaque, which increases one’s risk of issues like gum disease and tooth decay. Encourage your child to eat healthy snacks like fresh fruit, natural yoghurt and calcium-rich cheese, instead of sweet candy, baked goods and potato chips.

2.  Teach proper brushing techniques

You can start brushing your child’s teeth as soon they erupt, and you will need to supervise your little one until they reach an age at which they can thoroughly clean their own teeth.

When teaching your child how to brush their teeth, show them how to apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Explain that they should not swallow the toothpaste. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, show your child how to gently brush the inside surface of each tooth, as well as the outer and chewing surfaces. You can also demonstrate how to clean the tongue as plaque and bacteria can accumulate in this area of the mouth as well.

Flossing can be difficult for young children to do themselves, so it is best that you do it for them until around the age of eight years old.

3.  Consider preventative treatments

One of the most effective preventative treatments that is available for children, dental sealants help to protect the teeth from decay. Sealants are plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth and form a barrier between the enamel and harmful bacteria. The process of having dental sealants placed is completely painless and can be completed in just one quick dental visit.

Another preventative treatment that you might consider for your child is a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that strengthens the enamel of the teeth, making it more resistant to acid attacks that can lead to dental erosion and decay.

4.  Establish a routine

The earlier you establish a routine for your child, the better. Set a good example by sticking to your own routine too — this should include brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, and flossing daily in order to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and along the gum line.

You should also arrange regular dental check-ups and cleans for your family. Ideally, you and your children should see your dentist every six months. You can begin these appointments as early as two years old to ensure that your child becomes familiar with the experience and setting.

How can we help?

The team at Crown Dental offers a range of children’s dentistry services, including dental sealants, tooth extractions, fillings, fluoride treatments, grinding splints, mouthguards and professional teeth cleaning.

If it’s been a while since your child had a routine dental check-up and clean, or you are concerned about their oral health, we encourage you to come in and see us. Aside from our range of child-friendly treatments, we will also provide the guidance your child needs to grow up with optimal oral health. We are happy to provide parents and children with advice regarding oral hygiene, proper brushing and flossing techniques, and dietary choices.

To find out more about our children’s dentistry services, please have a look here. To arrange a consultation at Crown Dental, please get in touch here.