Children's Dental Care
Dental care should start from an early age. Looking after and teaching your child to care for their teeth will help them grow up with strong healthy teeth and gums.
The first teeth to come through are called milk teeth. Usually they start to come through at about 6 months, although some babies get them earlier. Most children will have all 20 milk teeth by the time they reach the age of two or three. Even though the milk teeth are not permanent they need to be looked after.
By introducing your child at a young age to a daily dental care routine it will become normal practice as they get older. The permanent teeth should come through at around the age of six. Most of the permanent teeth (up to 32) will have come through by the time a child is 13 years old.
Children that are given sugary foods or drinks on a regular basis are more prone to tooth decay. This is because the bacteria that’s in the mouth builds up on the teeth and forms a sticky layer which is called plaque. Some of the sugar in our food and drink is digested by the bacteria. This then makes acids that weaken the enamel on the teeth. If acids remain on the teeth for a long time the teeth will start to decay. So whilst a healthy diet that is low in sugar is important brushing teeth properly at least twice a day is vital.
The following will help reduce the risk of tooth decay in children:
- Reduce the amount of sugary food and drink your child has-Try and keep sweet foods and drinks to a minimum and avoid sugary snacks. Finishing a meal with milk or cheese will neutralise the acids in your child’s mouth which will help protect against erosion. Sugar free gum is good for older children as it removes bacteria and helps in fighting tooth decay
- Ensure they brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste-Teach your child how to brush correctly by using a gentle, circular motion. Supervise tooth brushing when they are learning to ensure the teeth are being cleaned properly. If you want to check you can buy disclosing tablets which are chewed for less than a minute. Any areas of plaque that have been missed turn a bright colour
- Teach your child to spit the toothpaste out rather than rinsing with water. The effect of the fluoride is reduced when they rinse the toothpaste out with water
- Regular visits to the dentist-This will help your child get used to the surroundings and what happens at a dental check up. It will make them feel more relaxed and comfortable with their dentist. The dentist will be able to spot any early signs of decay which is important in milk teeth as they have thinner enamel than adult teeth which means decay can spread quickly
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The Smile Centre will be able to advise you on the best type of treatment for you. To book a free consultation, call us on 0800 327 7192. Alternatively, you can enquire online and we will call you back.