How Do I Stop It?
Good oral hygiene routines are key! Brushing twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste is important, as well as flossing once a day. When your child gets their first tooth, you may begin brushing with fluoridated toothpaste. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends no more than a smear amount of toothpaste until the age of 3. After the age of 3, parents may begin using a pea-size amount. We recommend parents always supervise the amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush as well be the main ‘brusher’. As a rule of thumb, you should help your child brush their teeth until they are able to tie their shoes independently.
Getting routine dental check-ups every 6 months is also very important. Your dentist is able to assess the health of your child’s teeth and gums and give recommendations that may help make oral hygiene more fun. It is also important to get dental radiographs to see if there are any cavities forming in between the teeth. The cavities that form in between the teeth tend to not be discovered in the mouth until they have gotten very large, and therefore, it is important to get xrays to check for them early on and try to stop them.
Visit us at www.thechildrensdentalcenteria.com or call us at 319-626-5437