The 5 Don’ts for Your Kid’s Dental Care
Keeping kids safe from cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth is just as important as helping them to not get sick. In fact, according to the CDC, tooth decay among children is one of the most common diseases in the U.S.! Tooth decay can actually lead to serious problems in children when left untreated. Please take note of the 5 don’ts for your kid’s dental care!
Don’t Skip Fluoride
Fluoride is a super hero in the dental world, with the ability to strengthen a tooth's enamel, As a result, teeth are less susceptible to decay. Finding your children a fluoridated toothpaste is a great start in this regard. However, watch the amount they use, as too much can cause fluorosis. According to Healthline, all they really need is a smear if they are younger than 3, and a pea size amount on their toothbrush for years 3 to 6.
Don’t Underestimate the Need to Brush
Being a parent is a full-time job! But don't let the craziness of the day get in the way of ensuring your kids are brushing their teeth properly. In doing so, you are saving yourself some grief in preventing expensive and time consuming dental treatments! In an ideal world, you would have the kids brushing after each meal but things don't always work out that way. Instead, focus on making sure their teeth are brushed every morning and night.
Don’t Let them Brush Alone
Kids under age 6 need special attention in the brushing field. This means being present at each session of brushing to make sure all the nooks and crannys are being reached! Teach them by example, even having them watch you in the mirror as you brush and floss for them. Reminding them to spit out instead of swallowing will also serve as a protection.
Don’t do Sticky Sweets
It is a well known fact that too much sugary foods and drinks are harmful to teeth. It is even worse when the sugary foods stick to the teeth. Gummy bears, caramels, taffies, and the like, for example are all culprits. Chances of tooth decay increase the longer a sugary food sits on a tooth. Of coarse everyone needs a treat on occasion! On the daily however, try and give them more healthy options like fruits and veggies.
Don’t Let them Constantly Sip Juice
Although juice comes from fruit which is healthy, it does contain a lot of sugar. If kids drink this all day, tooth decay may result. Making juice a "special occasion" drink and water the "go-to", will greatly benefit your little one's dental health. When they do have juice or sugary drinks, it is helpful to have them rinse their mouth out with water.
A Kid-Friendly Dental Office
At Escondido Dental, we love helping kids to make their smile just a bit brighter! By their first birthday, it is recommended to bring a child to the dentist. Feel free to schedule this with us!