Diet and Tooth Decay
Keeping children's smile clean
Begin brushing your childs teeth at the age of one, at least twice a day.
The teeth of children under the age of two should be brushed with a soft bristled toothbrush and water. Children aged from two to six years old should use a minimum amount of fluoridated toothpaste (pea-sized) and parents continue responsibility for cleaning childs teeth. Children aged six to twelve should brush with type of toothbrush and technique recommended by dentist. Parents must brush their children teeth until the age of 8.
As soon as the child has teeth that touch, parents can begin gently to floss, this will keep the teeth clean in between. Moreover parents should change toothbrush every 3-4 months.
Fluoride
What are Sealants?
A sealant is a clear or shaded plastic material applied to the teeth to help keep them cavity-free. They are retained on the teeth for many years and they are used to prevent bacteria building up on the surfaces of teeth with grooves and pits.
If a primary tooth is lost too soon, the teeth beside it may drift into the empty spaces thus creating a lack of space in the jaw for the permanent teeth. For this reason, your dentist may recommend a space maintainer to prevent future space loss and dental problems.
All children eventually lose their primary teeth as the permanent teeth erupt. Primary teeth encourage normal development of the jaws and also save space for permanent teeth and guide them into position
Children with Special Needs
The Baby bottle syndrome
When should my child first see a dentist?
The first visit of your child to a dentist should be at the age of one. It includes advice on oral hygiene and the familiarization of your child with the dentist. Also bear in mind that tooth decay may appear at the age of 12 months and totally destroy teeth. How can a child have good experience visiting a dentist when having painful, decayed teeth, which may have to be extracted?