Importance and guidelines for maintaining child oral health

There are many responsibilities that come with parenting and keeping track of the child’s dental health can really become difficult. Although, parents tend to feed their children well, get them exercised and socialized well but often neglect their dental health. Parents always want the best for their children when their dental health is concerned but are not aware of the best way to do it. 

Some of the tips that must be followed to protect and strengthen your child’s teeth:

Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is required just after the first tooth appears as a baby’s teeth play a significant role in the overall health of the permanent teeth. Good oral hygiene must be practiced at all stages of child development. Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping the mouth clean by brushing and flossing at least twice a day to prevent tooth decay and gum diseases.   

Brushing alone is not enough for kids too; they also need to be taken for regular dental checkups with their parents. Though there is a difference in the medical necessities of the children and adults but dental health holds equal importance for the kids also.

Importance of maintaining good oral health

Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for protecting the mouth against the common dental problems such as tooth decay, plaque, cavities and gum diseases.

Plaque

It is a whitish substance that develops and sticks to the teeth when food is mixed with the bacteria in the mouth and saliva. Proper brushing and flossing can help in avoiding plaque. 

Tooth decay

Plaque causes tooth decay and results in small holes or cavities in the mouth. It is caused when sugar comes in contact with the bacteria present in your mouth. Tooth decay can be easily avoided by keeping the teeth clear of plaque. 

  

Gum disease

It is an infection of the gums surrounding the teeth and is caused when gums are exposed to plaque. Keeping the teeth clear of plaque will help in preventing gum disease.

Bad breath

It is caused due to the plaque buildup or the gum infection. Keeping the teeth and gums clean will help in preventing this condition.

Guidelines for avoiding such conditions

·         Clean the mouth of your child daily.

·         Tell your child to brush at least two times a day.

·         Teach your child proper brushing methods.

·         Educate them not to swallow tooth paste.

·         Keep a watch on the sugary snacks and drinks and limit their consumption.

·         Give them balanced diet and teach good eating habits.

·         Take them to pediatric dentist for regular dental checkups starting at the six months of age.

You can take your child to Snellville Family Dental, a renowned dental clinic in Snellville, GA.  Their dentistry for kids Snellville team is experienced and equipped to take care of your child’s smile. The pediatric dentist can suggest you when and how often your child must visit the dentist’s office, according to their dental health.