Why Is It Important To Maintain Dental Hygiene For Babies and Toddlers?

Children should learn about practising optimal oral hygiene from an early age. Parents must teach their children about the importance of dental care to develop a healthy smile. Parents need to be highly involved with oral care even before the appearance of the first tooth. An experienced NHS dentist in Southall can help you with the best advice.

Importance of Oral Care for Children

Young Children at Risk for Decay

The risk of developing a cavity rises as soon as the first tooth of a baby emerges. There can be various reasons for serious tooth decay among infants when they consume excessive sugary drinks or juices. This situation can be avoided by concentrating on children’s oral health from birth.

Keeping Your Child’s Teeth Clean

There will be a change in oral hygiene practices and routines with age. Here are some suggestions to ensure the utmost care for your child’s mouth.

• 0-6 Months: Make sure to gently clean an infant’s gums using a clean damp washcloth or gauze pad after every feeding. Avoid propping a bottle in an infant’s mouth or allowing a baby to feed “at will.” Many people put their baby to sleep with a bottle, which isn’t right. Never share utensils or wash a bottle, nipple, or pacifier by putting it in their mouth.

• 6-12 Months: The first tooth usually appears when a baby is around 6 to 8 months of age. As soon as the first tooth emerges, switch to lightly brushing teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush but no toothpaste. Massage their gums gently. Also, pay attention to the appearance of a child’s teeth and gums to track any unusual changes early.

• 12-18 Months: You should take your child for an oral examination from the dentist as they turn 1. The parent should brush their baby’s teeth using plain water twice daily. Further, they should also continue avoiding sharing drinks to abstain from saliva transmission.

• 18 Months to 5 Years: Around the age of 2 years, parents must start brushing the child’s teeth using a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. Teach your child not to swallow the toothpaste and spit out all of it. Toddlers generally need help brushing their teeth, but most kids start brushing themselves by age 6 or 7.

You can contact White House Dental Practice if you are looking for the best NHS dentist in Southall.