Dental care should start early for your little one. In fact, it’s recommended that children see a dentist after the first six months of age, and at least by the child’s first birthday. By this time a baby’s first teeth are beginning to erupt, and it’s a critical time to detect any dental problems before they become major concerns.

Good dental care and healthy eating habits are just a few important factors that play a large role in the development of strong, healthy teeth for your child. Teach proper dental habits early, and your child will be better equipped to care for their smile into adulthood.

Preventing Tooth Decay

In order to prevent tooth decay from building on your child’s teeth, it’s important to practice good dental health every day, including proper brushing, flossing and eating a well-balanced diet. When your child’s first tooth erupts, you should clean the tooth with a soft damp cloth. As more teeth appear, use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean the teeth and gums. By the age of six, introduce your child to brushing and flossing on their own. Brush twice a day to prevent plaque build up, and purchase bright, fun colored toothbrushes and flavorful toothpaste to make brushing fun.

Limit the amount of sugary foods and drinks your child consumes, as large doses can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Instead, introduce fruits and vegetables into your child’s diet to encourage healthy eating. Promoting a nutritious and well-balanced diet with the recommended levels of calcium and fluoride can help your child build strong, decay-resistant teeth.

Prepare For Dental Injuries

Unfortunately, injuries to the teeth and mouth do occur, especially when you have an active child. As always, the first step to handling your child’s dental emergency is to contact your dentist, as it may be necessary for your child to receive professional dental care if the injury is serious. Knowing how to handle dental emergencies can make dental emergencies less stressful. Ask your child’s dentist how to care for lost, chipped or broken teeth.

To reduce the chance of dental injuries, don’t allow your child to put foreign objects or toys into their mouth as this can damage their teeth. And if your child is involved in impact sports and physical activities, ask your dentist about custom-fit mouth guards to prevent injuries to the mouth, teeth, lips and gums.

Thumb-sucking and Pacifiers

If your child sucks their thumb or seems attached to their pacifier, don’t be alarmed. It’s normal for a child to suck on a pacifier or thumb at some point. This behavior is soothing and comforting for the child, and provides a feeling of security and relaxation. But as the child grows older, usually around the age of four, try to discourage the use of pacifiers and thumb-sucking. Excessive and prolonged thumb-sucking can interfere with the development of your child’s teeth, causing them to be malformed, crooked or crowded. Ask your dentist about effective methods for weaning your child off of these behaviors.

Helping your child achieve a beautiful, healthy smile doesn’t have to be difficult. Choose a dentist that is comfortable with children, and one that provides a relaxing and educational atmosphere for your child.

Sean Hartmen is the author for Cherrywood Dental Care, a cosmetic and family dentist in Savage, MN, Prior Lake, Shakopee, Burnsville and Lakeville. Repeatedly chosen as one of Minnesotas Top Dentists, this Prior Lake dentist is committed to providing the best modern dentistry in a state-of-the-art facility.

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