There is nothing more heartwarming than the smile of a child. As a parent, it is important to make sure your child’s teeth remain healthy and strong. Many kids, however, are diagnosed with dental cavities during their annual checkup at a pediatric dentist office in Highland Park. Cavities can be prevented. Just following a few, simple tips may reduce your child’s risk of developing decay on their new teeth.
A healthy smile starts at home. The first step for reducing dental problems in your child is to teach them proper cleaning and care. When a child is still very young, it is up to the parent to clean each tooth after feedings. A warm, wet washcloth can be used to gently rub away food or drink from the baby’s mouth. As the child gets older, you should switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush, paired with a kid-friendly toothpaste. Gradually begin to teach your child how to brush their teeth. In addition to brushing, you can prevent baby tooth decay by forbidding your child from going to bed with a bottle. The sugar in milk and formula will gradually eat away at the soft tooth enamel.
In addition to home care, yearly trips to a pediatric dentist are also important. The dentist will make sure that your child’s teeth are growing in properly. They will also look for any signs of gum disease. During an annual cleaning, ask the dentist to give your child a fluoride rinse. Fluoride is great for protecting against cavities. You can also use an anti-cavity mouthwash that contains fluoride at home. The dentist may recommend applying a sealant to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Sealants block bacteria and food from attacking the teeth. Having a tooth treated with a sealant is painless, and it can last up to 10 years.
Children are very prone to tooth decay, but there are steps to prevent it. Making sure to brush your child’s teeth and rinse their mouth after every meal is the best way to reduce the risk of cavities at home. In addition to daily care, be sure to have your child’s teeth examined at a pediatric dentist office in Highland Park at least once a year. Teaching your child the importance of proper tooth care while they are young will encourage them to make good dental habits in the future.
Please do not hesitate to reach out North Suburban Dental, or to make an appointment. We hope to hear from you soon!
