Every year, the month of February is dedicated to raising the importance of oral health for children as National Children’s Dental Health Month. Too often, the importance of oral care for children is underestimated as the primary teeth eventually fall out. However, the health and development of the primary teeth set the foundation for oral health for the remainder of a child’s life. As a pediatric dentist in Northampton, we support National Children’s Dental Health Month and the mission to raise awareness about oral care for children. To ensure your children have the right foundation for a lifetime of oral health, we have the tips you need to protect their smiles.
Home Oral Hygiene
Your child’s commitment to oral hygiene habits start at home. From the time the first baby tooth erupts, your child needs to start brushing and flossing. Young children are not capable of doing so properly and do not understand the importance of brushing and flossing. Therefore, you will need to set the example.
Your child needs to brush all surfaces of their teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Ensure the toothbrush is not too large for their mouth. They need to brush twice a day for at least two minutes each session. In addition, children need to floss in between each tooth once a day.
Regular Dental Visits
The American Dental Association recommends everyone over the age of two sees their dentist twice a year. Even with the best home oral hygiene, your child needs to have their teeth cleaned professionally. In addition, they need a comprehensive checkup to monitor the health and development of the teeth. With regular checkups, we can provide early intervention for potential dental problems.
Balanced Diet
The foods your child eats can either help or hurt the teeth. Consuming foods that contain a large amount of sugars or starches increases your child’s risk for tooth decay. Teach your child to choose healthy foods to prevent tooth decay. In addition, they will have the nutrients they need for strong, healthy teeth while also supporting a healthy body.
Choose Tap Water
One area that is often overlooked when it comes to the oral health of children is fluoride. Fluoride is vital to strengthening the enamel to prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is found in public water sources, which is why it is important for your child to drink tap water. In fact, tap water is such a beneficial source of fluoride, this year’s National Children’s Dental Health Month’s focus is “Choose Tap Water for a Sparkling Smile.” In addition to drinking tap water, fluoride varnishes are used at preventive appointments to further strengthen enamel to ward off tooth decay.
Protect Your Child’s Smile
As a pediatric dentist in Amherst, we want to help you ensure your child develops and maintains a healthy, beautiful smile. We offer complete children’s dentistry services to set the right foundation for lifelong oral health. Contact Northampton Pediatric Dentistry today to schedule an appointment for your child.