Did you know your child’s smile is vulnerable to cavities, even though their little chompers just grew into place? Well, it’s true. This is why it’s important to help your child prevent dental cavities while they’re young. This problem is common and it is often referred to as baby bottle tooth decay. To help your child avoid cavities while they’re young, Dr. John S. Grisham and our dental team have some tips for you.
Clean and strengthen the chompers
Before their teeth even grow into place, wipe your child’s gums with a wet cloth after they eat. Once your child’s first tooth erupts, brush it twice a day with a child-sized toothbrush and water. When they turn 2 years old, you can use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. When two teeth grow in next to each other, begin flossing between those teeth at least once a day. All in all, make sure your child receives enough fluoride so their teeth can remain healthy and strong. For fluoride tips, feel free to talk to your dentist.
Take advantage of dental treatments
Bring your child into John S. Grisham, DDS for their first dental checkup when they are 1 year old or six months after their first little chomper erupts from the gums. This appointment will help your child maintain a successful oral health, it will allow you to find answers to your questions, and it will help your child get comfortable in the dental chair.
Avoid sugar
As you may already know, sugar is bad for the teeth, especially because it causes cavities. So, please don’t put sugary liquids in your child’s bottle, and don’t send them to bed with a sugary drink. Also, please don’t dip your child’s pacifier in sugar or honey before giving it to them.
If you do these things, your child will be on their way toward the top-notch smile and oral health they deserve. To learn more about how to prevent baby bottle tooth decay in Littleton, New Hampshire, please call our office at 603-444-2100 at your earliest convenience. We look forward to teaching you how to take care of your child’s smile!