BRUSHING TIPS: Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft cloth and water. As soon as your child’s teeth erupt, brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush. If they are under the age of 2, use a small “smear” of toothpaste. If they’re 2-5 years old, use a “pea-size” amount of toothpaste. Be sure and use an ADA-accepted fluoride …
Due to the high sugar content and acids in sports drinks, they have erosive potential and the ability to dissolve even fluoride-rich enamel, which can lead to cavities. To minimize dental problems, children should avoid sports drinks and hydrate with water before, during and after sports. Be sure to talk to your pediatric dentist before using sports drinks. If sports …
Whether you can feel it or not, food particles get stuck between your teeth and under the gum line. This can cause plaque buildup and tartar and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Daily flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between teeth and keep gums healthy. Do you have questions about how to floss your teeth? Here are some helpful …
START EARLY Your child’s baby teeth are at risk for decay as soon as they first appear—which is typically around age 6 months. Tooth decay in infants and toddlers is often referred to as Baby Bottle Tooth Decay. It most often occurs in the upper front teeth, but other teeth may also be affected. In some cases, infants and toddlers experience decay so severe that …
Good oral hygiene removes bacteria and the leftover food particles that combine to create cavities. For infants, use a wet gauze or clean washcloth to wipe the plaque from teeth and gums. Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle filled with anything other than water. See ” Baby Bottle Tooth Decay” for more information. For older children, brush …
Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew their food, speak and have a good-looking smile. What’s more, a good diet is essential for a child’s growth and development. Almost all foods, including milk or vegetables, have some type of sugar, which can contribute to tooth decay. To help control the amount of sugar your child consumes, always try to read …
When a child begins to participate in recreational activities and organized sports, injuries can occur. A properly fitted mouth guard, or mouth protector, is an important piece of athletic gear that can help protect your child’s smile, and should be used during any activity that could result in a blow to the face or mouth. Mouth guards help prevent broken …
