Studies from cdc.gov show that up to 20% of children, aged 5 to 11, have at least one untreated decayed tooth. That&rsquos why it&rsquos important to instill good oral hygiene habits from a young age. To prevent cavities, tooth decay, and potential dental procedures, follow NELA Dental&rsquos Top 5 Ways to Protect your Child&rsquos Teeth.
- Start Early:
Even before your baby has its first tooth, gently rub a soft, wet washcloth over the baby&rsquos gums. Not only will this help remove any leftover milk or formula, it can also ease the transition into tooth brushing later on.
- Avoid sugary beverages in bed:
Sugary drinks can cling to the teeth and gums of your little one, and this can increase the likelihood of tooth decay later on. To avoid this, try not to give your kiddo&rsquos any snacks or juice after they have brushed their teeth at the end of every night.
- Visit NELA Dental after the first tooth comes in:
To ensure that teeth are erupting normally, it&rsquos important to take your baby to the dentist after their first tooth pushes through! At NELA Dental, we can check oral health, and answer any questions you might have about factors that can impact your child&rsquos smile.
- Brush for two minutes twice a day:
To ensure optimal oral health, teach your kids the importance of brushing their teeth twice a day. To make tooth brushing more exciting, opt for a toothbrush with their favorite cartoon character, or even better- a toothbrush that sings!
- Introduce fluoride toothpaste after your child learns to spit:
Generally speaking, childrens under 3 have a hard time spitting out leftover toothpaste, and problems can occur if too much toothpaste is swallowed. Opt for baby-safe toothpaste while your child is still unable to spit on their own, but remember: fluoride is important to good oral health and strong teeth!
If your child is due for a Dentist appointment, let the dedicated professionals at NELA Dental get your child on the way to good oral health! From general check-ups, to cavity removal, NELA Dental has got you covered. So, start smiling today with NELA Dental!
