Good oral hygiene is important for children to learn early. Parents should begin brushing their baby’s teeth as soon as they come through the gums. When babies are young, it is best to use a very small, soft toothbrush with a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Use a non-fluoride toothpaste until your child is old enough to brush their own teeth. Toothpaste with fluoride in it shouldn’t be swallowed.
Starting when the child is about 2-years-old, parents should begin using a fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and other germs from their children’s teeth. When they visits their dentists in Hoover Alabama children may get additional lessons on proper brushing techniques. Like adults, children should see the dentist at least every six months for a checkup and professional cleaning.
Though flossing isn’t usually necessary for children until they have their permanent teeth, they can learn how to properly use dental floss when they are young. Teach your children how to wrap the floss around their fingers and gently move it between their teeth. Daily flossing is important for older children and those whose primary teeth grow close together. At their semi-annual checkups with their dentists Hoover Alabama children and their parents can make sure that they are flossing correctly and removing all of the plaque from between the teeth.
Part of good oral hygiene is seeing the dentist regularly. Children should start seeing the dentist prior to their first birthday. The earlier children are seen by the dentist, the easier it will be for potential dental problems to be detected and addresses. By choosing pediatric Dentists Hoover Alabama parents can ensure that their children have a pleasant experience. Pediatric dental offices cater to children so young patients are more comfortable.
When parents begin teaching their children how to properly care for their teeth when they are young, children develop lifelong good oral hygiene habits. Children who establish an early relationship with their dentist are less likely to be fearful if they ever need to have a cavity filled or another dental procedure performed. For more advice on how parents can help keep their children’s teeth clean and healthy, visit www.birminghamkidsdentist.com.
