Pediatric dentistry stresses the importance of keeping your child's teeth clean from birth. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises that parents clean their baby's teeth as soon as they erupt, as tooth decay can start as soon as teeth come in.
Use a soft, wet cloth or a very small, soft-bristled toothbrush to clean baby teeth. You can also use water alone to help remove plaque from teeth. Do not use toothpaste until your child is two years old or older. If you do use toothpaste, make sure it is fluoride toothpaste and only use a pea-sized amount.
It is also essential to avoid giving your child sugary drinks or snacks. A child who frequently consumes sugary drinks or snacks can easily develop cavities. Water is the safest beverage for your child's teeth since it does not contain sugar.
Cleaning your child's teeth may seem like a daunting task, but it is crucial to start early and establish good habits. Following these tips can help keep your child's smile healthy and bright.
There are many benefits to keeping your baby's teeth clean. For one, it can help prevent cavities. Bacteria that live in the mouth produce cavities, feast on sugary foods, and create acids. When these bacteria break down sugar, they have acid that attacks tooth enamel. Over time, this can cause cavities.
Another benefit of keeping baby teeth clean is that it can help prevent gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss. Therefore, it is vital to remove plaque from teeth so it does not build up and cause gum disease. Finally, keeping your child's teeth clean can help them have a healthy smile. A healthy smile is essential for self-confidence and overall health.
One of the things our pediatric dentist wants you to know is how to prevent "bottle rot." Bottle rot is a type of tooth decay that can happen when a baby falls asleep with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice. This is because the sugar in these drinks can pool around the baby's teeth and cause cavities.
To prevent bottle rot, pediatric dentists recommend that parents wean their children off bottles by 12 months. If your child uses a bottle after their first birthday, ensure it only contains water. You should also avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle.
Parents should also clean their children's teeth after nursing or using a bottle, even if they do not have any teeth yet. Parents should gently use a clean, damp cloth to wipe their baby's gums to remove plaque and bacteria. Cleaning a child's mouth is most important before nap or bedtime since their body experiences reduced saliva production, leaving tissues in the mouth exposed to bacteria and the acids they make for longer periods.
Having a healthy mouth starts during childhood. Proper oral care has a massive impact on the rest of the body. Call our office today to ensure your child obtains and maintains good oral hygiene.
Call our office today to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.breapediatricdentists.com or call Brea Pediatric Dental Practice and Orthodontics at (714) 782-0215 for an appointment in our Brea office.
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