Preventative Dental Care is Important Throughout Life, Especially at a Young Age:
By practicing good oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular checkups with the dentist, your child can help keep their smile bright and healthy for many years to come.
Here are a few simple ways to prevent the build-up of plaque and cavities:
Brush
Make sure your child brushes her teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque from the tooth surfaces. Also be sure she brushes the top surface of her tongue; this will remove any extra plaque-causing food particles and help keep her breath fresh!
Floss
Make sure your child cleans between her teeth by flossing at least once a day. You can also use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen her breath. Decay-causing bacteria can linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Floss and mouthwash will help remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
Diet
Nutrition is of utmost importance when it comes to your child’s oral and overall health. Make sure your child eats a balanced diet, and try to avoid/limit snacks and drinks high in processed sugars. If your child does drink any type of juice, milk, or any other liquid sugars, be sure to coordinate them with a meal. Anytime you are traveling or are between meals water is the healthiest beverage. Nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese, or fruit can help keep your child’s smile bright and beautiful.
Check-Ups
Remember to schedule regular checkups with your child’s dentist every six months for a professional teeth cleaning. We use state-of-the-art digital radiography for immediate observation of x-rays and early diagnosis of potential dental problems.
Sealants
Ask your dentist about dental sealants, a protective plastic coating that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts.
Safety
If your child plays sports, be sure to ask your dentist about special mouthguards designed to protect your child’s smile.