Care for Dental Cavities in Children in Hervey Bay
Starting Early
Begin oral care as soon as your child’s first tooth erupts. Wipe the tooth with a soft, damp cloth or use a child-sized toothbrush. This sets the foundation for good dental hygiene habits.
Brushing and Flossing
Once your child is old enough to spit (around age 2), use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste on their toothbrush. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Ensure your child uses a soft-bristle toothbrush appropriate for their age and mouth size. This helps clean teeth effectively without causing damage to the gums.
Here are some other tips:
- Assist young children with brushing until they have the dexterity to do it effectively, usually around age 6 or 7.
- Supervise their brushing to ensure they are reaching all areas of their mouth.
- Encourage a consistent oral care routine by brushing at least twice a day. This helps eliminate plaque buildup and maintains oral health.
- Start flossing your child’s teeth when there are two adjacent teeth. Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque between teeth, preventing cavities and gum disease.
Hydrating & Eating a Healthy Diet
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and encourage a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and lean proteins. A balanced diet provides essential nutrients for healthy teeth and gums.
- Promote drinking water throughout the day to rinse away food particles and maintain saliva production. Staying hydrated supports overall oral health and prevents dry mouth.
- Offer healthy snacks like fruits and vegetables instead of sugary snacks and candies. Sugary snacks increase the risk of cavities, so limiting their consumption is important.
Avoiding Prolonged Bottle Use
Don’t allow your child to fall asleep with a bottle containing sugary liquids. This can lead to early childhood tooth decay. Encourage finishing bottles before bedtime and practicing good oral hygiene afterward.
Visiting the Dentist for Check-ups & Fluoride Treatments
Discuss with your dentist whether fluoride treatments or dental sealants are appropriate for your child. These preventive measures can help protect their teeth from cavities.
Educating & Serving As a Role Model
Teach your child about the importance of oral hygiene and the reasons for brushing and flossing. Maintain your own oral health routine and demonstrate healthy eating habits. Children learn by observing, so being a positive role model will encourage them to prioritise their dental hygiene.
Safeguarding Young Smiles With Mouthguards
Consider a custom-fitted mouthguard if your child plays sports. Mouthguards provide extra protection against dental injuries.
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