Oral Hygiene For Kids
Irrespective of whether you are an adult or kid, oral hygiene is of utmost importance to maintain good dental health. Sweets, desserts, junk foods, etc, eaten by kids are harmful for teeth. If you as parents maintain and help your children cultivate healthy oral hygiene habits early in life, it will be beneficial for them in the long run.
Lack of proper oral hygiene causes variety of unwanted conditions such as dental cavities, bad breath, gum diseases and toothache.
To reduce cavities, consume less of sugar, as it will reduce the number of acid producing bacteria. Adequate dietary calcium, phosphorus, vitamins A, D and C promotes healthy and strong enamel formation.
Frequent brushing of teeth helps to reduce acid plaque that damages the enamel, while regular flossing prevents it from sticking to smooth surfaces among teeth. If you cannot brush and floss after a meal, end your meal with self cleaning foods like apple or celery, that are crunchy and help in sweeping away food stuck in between two tooth’s and plaque.
Every meal / snack subjects your teeth to an acid attack. Therefore all day snacking causes the teeth to be inundated in acid constantly. So eat less snacks between meals.
Oral fluorides strengthen the developing enamel and dentin layers of children’s teeth before eruption. Topical fluorides fill in the pores of undeveloped enamel or small early cavities and reduce cavities in already erupted teeth. The dentists do topical fluorides.
Sealants are plastic coatings on the pits and fissures of chewing surfaces of back teeth like molars. They are highly effective in reducing and preventing cavities in baby and adult teeth. Sealants are recommended for all permanent molars in children.
Brushing is irreplaceable. Brush twice a day with soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Take time to brush every tooth, front and back as well as your tongue.
Flossing is important to keep the plaque from accumulating as it helps get rid of the food particles in hard to reach areas.
Visit your dentist every six months to have your teeth cleaned and checked for cavities. Regular checkups will keep you informed if your child’s teeth are coming in properly and keep any unwanted problems away.
