KIDS ORAL HEALTH CARE

Your mouth is the gateway to your body. So if you are concerned about your child’s overall health, you should take care of their oral health as well. There is no such thing as early start for oral hygiene. From healthy gums come healthy teeth. As kids grow up, their oral hygiene habit grows with them.

We are here with some tips and tricks to embark on the oral health journey of your child.

How to take care of gum pads?

Gum pads are nothing but the pink, firm raised ridges in your child’s mouth from which teeth erupt.

They should be cleaned from the first week of birth.
Cleaning can be easily done by laying the baby on your lap and wiping the area with clean wash cloth using WATER ONLY.
Take the bottle away once your child finishes drinking milk. Leaving the bottle in child’s mouth for long period/overnight leads to BOTTLE TOOTH DECAY.

First tooth....

As soon as the first tooth erupts in your child’s mouth, start brushing twice a day.
Start using soft child size toothbrush with a tiny smear of NON-FLUORIDATED toothpaste.
You can use finger brushes when your kid has lesser number of teeth.

Toothbrushes can be replaced every 3-6 months or when the bristles look worn out.

When can you start using fluoridated toothpaste?

You can switch to fluoridated toothpaste only when your child gains the control of SPITTING OUT. This can be done around 2 years of age under your supervision.

Using fluoridated toothpaste prevents cavities. However, start with tiniest amount of fluoride paste.

FIRST BIRTHDAY-----------FIRST DENTAL VISIT DAY

First dental visit is a “getting to know” session.

2 years of age….

It is important to encourage your child to brush on their own, UNDER YOUR SUPERVISION.
Brushing twice a day using soft child size brush with pea sized fluoridated toothpaste for 2 minutes using circular motion.

MAKING IT A FUN ACTIVITY…..

Let children choose their own toothbrush- having favorite color/character.
Let them choose their toothpaste with favorite flavor.
Use a timer or play their favorite song to keep track of time.
Reward them with a gold star or hug/kiss for their good oral care.
Make it a ‘family event’ so that your child learns by watching and imitating you.

SAY CHEEEEEEEESE….

When you see a picture you see a happy person looking back at you. Your kids may want a pretty photo too and you can make it happen. The healthier your teeth are, the happier you look with a wider smile.