Kids rely on their parents for the guidance and tools to a healthy smile and ongoing oral hygiene habits. We assembled a list of 5 mistakes that some parents make when managing their children’s oral health. Hopefully, you’re on the right track to superstar parenting, but let’s review.
1) Letting children brush alone
Most children don’t have the motor skills to brush their teeth effectively until age 8, so parents should supervise and make sure that each brushing session is getting the job done.
2) Putting your baby to bed with a bottle
This mistake is the easiest to avoid, but it still happens and causes the worst damage. If your baby wakes needs a bottle or to nurse at night, wipe out its mouth with a soft cloth or brush if teeth are present.
3) Missing critical dental appointmentsThe first dental visit should be when the first tooth appears or by baby’s first birthday. Future dental appointments should be every six months, which will help to establish comfort with visiting the dentist, and opportunities for the excellent oral care.
4) Not using fluoride
Fluoride has been proven to protect from future cavities, and to re-mineralize small cavities. For children age 3 and younger, use fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. For children 3 to 6 years old, the amount should be pea sized. Your supervision of brushing is also necessary to ensure the proper amount of toothpaste is used.
5) Offering sports drinks and soda
There is absolutely no benefits to drinking soda, especially in children. Sports drinks also have a high amount of sugar and acidic consistency. Both are damaging contributors to tooth decay in children. If these types of drinks are consumed, the child should brush and floss even more often.
If you know any new parents, or anyone that may benefit from this article, please share it with them today. Dr. Mark Dawoud and Dr. Frank Sierra want you and your child to have a successful time with oral health. They are available to answer any and all questions in person, by phone, or even through the website or our social media platforms.
