Statistics has it that at least 4 million preschoolers, which is about 40% of all 2-5 year olds, suffer tooth decay as a result of poor dental hygiene. This makes tooth decay the most common disease in children.
The average American kid eats about 7,000 calories of candies on Halloween. Asides the extra pounds and intense energy, those treats negatively affect your child’s dental health and could lead to tooth decay.
Tooth decay is caused when bacteria in the mouth produces acid that attacks the enamel of the tooth. This leads to cavities, which are holes in the teeth. It is a condition that could result if your child’s dental hygiene is not on the high side.
5 Best Possible Ways to Maintain and Improve Your Child’s Dental Hygiene
1. Find the right dentist and keep up with appointments:
The best way to start out improving your child’s dental hygiene is by seeking and consulting the right children’s dentists. Your child’s dentist can guide and help you learn the right techniques for brushing and caring for your child’s teeth. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), and The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends visiting your child’s dentist in their first year and subsequently, at least twice in a year. This is because your child’s dentist knows the challenges that come with different children’s age groups. A pediatric dentist can help ensure your child’s teeth and gum are in perfect condition.
2. Brushing twice a day:
It is vital for your child to brush their teeth twice a day, morning and evening, for two minutes minimum. Brushing your child’s teeth this way can help improve your child’s dental hygiene. Encourage your child to rinse their mouth after each meal, to get rid of food particles trapped in the mouth.
3. Use the proper toothpaste:
The AAPD advises the use of a non-fluoridated toothpaste for your child, if under the age of 2. This is because they tend to swallow it. For children ages 2-6 years old, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, and make sure they spit it out after brushing. Using more toothpaste than that can go to waste.
4. Floss regularly:
Flossing should begin as soon as your child has two teeth that touch one another. Children are usually able to begin flossing on their own by the time they are 6 to 7 years old, so, you need to give your child a hand until they can floss effectively. Always floss under the care and direction of your child’s dentist.
5. Avoid wrong foods:
Choosing foods play a big part in improving your child’s dental hygiene. Fruit juice or sports drinks are a big go to for kids but checking how much your child consumes, can go a long way to improve their dental hygiene as the sugar found in these drinks aid in faster development of cavities (hole in tooth). Include in your child’s diet more fruits, vegetables, cheese, and calcium-rich foods like yogurt, milk, spinach, almonds and broccoli.
Final Thoughts
Remember to set a good example for your child by practicing good dental hygiene. Depending on how serious you take your own dental hygiene, can shape your child’s dental health. Make sure to supervise your child’s brushing and flossing at all times, not forgetting to always consult your child’s dentist. This is the key to a happy and healthy dental hygiene regimen for your child.
At Around The World Dentistry we wish to bring that level of care for your children. Our dental staff are expertly trained and have the experience and gentleness you would want in a dental office atmosphere. Contact us today to make an appointment or call (203) 489 – 2112.