Ensuring your child’s dental health and hygiene from a young age is crucial. If you are a new parent desiring to provide a healthy start for your child’s dental well-being, our teeth cleaning experts in Fort Lauderdale FL have compiled this quick guide for you. Let’s delve into how you can care for your newborn’s dental health with the following pointers!
Our team offers a range of services, that can help patients of all ages, including:
- Teeth Cleaning
- Cosmetic Dentistry
- Veneers
- Dental Implants
- Invisalign
- Crowns & Bridges
- Partials & Dentures
- Invisible Fillings
- SureSmile
- Teeth Whitening
- Root Canals
- Nightguards, and More!
Tips for Your Child’s Dental Well-being
Here are key tips to ensure your child’s dental health:
Start Oral Hygiene Early: According to national statistics, 1 in 4 children develop tooth decay before they start school, and half of all schoolchildren between the ages of 12 and 15 have cavities. Our experts advise parents to begin dental cleaning when their child gets their first tooth, usually around six months old. Use a clean, damp cloth or a very soft brush for this purpose. When the child turns two, you can encourage them to brush their teeth independently, under your supervision.- Consider Dental Sealants: Around the age of six, your child will get their permanent molars. By this time, they should have a daily routine of brushing and flossing. Regarding molars, consult your cosmetic dentist in Fort Lauderdale FL about dental sealants. The CDC states that dental sealants significantly reduce caries when applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. Though few children receive this treatment, it is an important discussion to have with your dentist.
- Use Fluoride Wisely: Fluoride strengthens enamel, making it less susceptible to tooth decay. While many toothpastes and mouth rinses contain fluoride, it is important not to overuse it in young children. Our specialists recommend using no more than a pea-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste on the toothbrush. Overuse of fluoride can lead to white spots on the teeth.
- Maintain a Teeth Cleaning Routine: Every person should brush their teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use a mild mouthwash once a day. This is especially crucial for children, who tend to put their fingers or different objects in their mouths often. Toothbrush replacement every 3 to 4 months is also important. If your child has braces, consult with your orthodontist about the use of special toothbrushes and teeth cleaning techniques.
- Encourage Teeth-Cleaning Foods: It might be challenging to ensure your child uses mouthwash after meals at school. However, you can include apples, carrots, and strawberries in their lunchboxes. These fruits not only offer vitamins and essential nutrients but also contribute to cleaner and healthier teeth.
For more insights on maintaining your child’s dental health, have a chat with our teeth cleaning specialists in Fort Lauderdale FL. We encourage you to contact us for a Free Consultation of our comprehensive dental services to learn more about ensuring optimal oral health for your child.
