Health Article

The Growing Years: Children’s Dental Care

Children’s teeth begin forming before birth, and begin to show around 4 months of age. All 20 of their baby teeth are usually in place by age 3, and permanent teeth begin to appear around age 6. This continues until around the age of 20.

Good habits for any age:

Limit sugar intake
Make sure children get enough fluoride, either through drinking water or at the dentist’s office
Teach proper brushing and flossing
Supervise brushing sessions and offer help where needed

Babies:

To prevent dreaded “baby bottle tooth decay,” wipe gums with gauze or a clean washcloth and water after feeding. When teeth appear, brush daily with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Put child to bed with a bottle of water, not milk or juice.
Thumb sucking – this really isn’t a concern until around 4 years of age, when permanent teeth appear.
Avoid the appearance of white spots on your child’s teeth with daily cleanings and dental appointments

Toddlers:

It’s natural for young children to be frightened of the dentist. To help make the experience less scary, see if the dentist will allow a pre-visit before the first appointment.
Some dentists will allow your child to sit in your lap during the first exam
Toddlers love their new independence, and may resist an oral care routine. Try to brush at the same time every day. Award your child with a sticker if he cooperates.

School-Age:

Kids love sweets. Encourage healthy snacking by providing options like fruit, yogurt, and fresh vegetables instead.
Antibiotic stains – speak to your pediatrician about potential dental side effects when medication is prescribed.

Teens:

Many kids get braces at this age. Supervise brushing and flossing at this stage. Try a floss threader to remove food particles.
Sports accidents – avoid damage to teeth with proper gear and mouth guards.

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