ToothHugger Guide: Kids Dental Care

photo by andrew_mc_d

Kids require attention because their teeth are calcifying and maturing. It’s important to have a balance of nutrition, good health and oral hygiene and begin encouraging this at a young age. This sets the foundation for healthy teeth and gums for the rest of their lives.

General

  • No flouride toothpastes, because they tend to swallow. Flouride can cause brittle bones.
  • Recommend MI Paste (prescription only) from the dentist. Contains high concentration of bio-available calcium which helps make teeth stronger and is a safe flouride alternative.
  • Avoid tetracycline (antibiotic) because it can cause internal staining of the teeth, which is difficult to remove.
  • Brush or rinse mouth with water immediately after eating snacks to remove sugar content in the mouth and saliva.

Newborn – 6 months

  • Finger brush tongue and gums twice daily. Removes bacterial coating from milk.

6 months – 1 year

  • Teething is a natural process. Best to use teething rings which can be chilled in the freezer to alleviate irritation. Finger massaging gums may also help.
  • Finger brush twice daily.
  • Diet high in calcium helps calcify teeth and make them stronger.
  • No sugar water or bottles to bed (causes tooth decay).
  • Discourage thumb-sucking. The palate is still developing and thumb can cause mouth malformation.
  • Use pacifiers sparingly or not at all.
  • See the dentist. Appointment is fun, take a photo and play. This alleviates fears and gets children comfortable with seeing a dentist.

1 – 6 years

  • 2 years: Begin using kids toothbrush. Toothbrushes with ring tones encourages them to brush for at least two minutes.
  • Remember to brush back teeth, especially upper back molars. They’re the most common areas where decay occurs.
  • 6 years: Permanent molars come in. Important to get sealants to prevent decay on the biting surfaces of the teeth. Check with dentist to ensure sealant doesn’t have bisphenyl-A, which is a cancer-causing agent.
  • Incorporate childrens’ tongue scraper which removes bacteria and helps prevent strep throat.
  • No sticky foods, especially gummy bears.

6 years +

  • Kids begin losing teeth. Let them fall out naturally. Celebrate with the Tooth Fairy!
  • 8 years: Start flossing!
  • 8 years: Time for a braces check. Make appointment with orthodontist.

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