Once the baby teeth begin coming in, start taking care of them right away. Many parents think baby teeth aren’t important because they’re eventually replaced by permanent ones but in fact baby teeth play quite an important role and maintain spaces for the adult teeth to come out so it’s important we take care of them. Without a healthy set of baby teeth, your child will have trouble chewing foods and may have speaking issues. That’s why caring for baby teeth and keeping them decay-free is so important.
To avoid decay in baby teeth do not leave a milk or formula bottle in the baby’s cot. When babies fall asleep with a bottle some milk stays in the mouth and on the teeth. This can cause tooth decay at an early age. Once your baby has finished feeding remove the bottle from the baby’s cot.
Water is the best drink for toddlers, for babies under 12 months, tap water should be boiled and cooled before drinking. Fruit juice and sweet drinks can cause tooth decay due to the high sugar levels so avoid giving on a daily basis.
When choosing a toothbrush for your child make sure to get one that is extra soft, small brush head and a large handle. As soon as teeth erupt, you can start using junior milk toothpaste in the amount of a grain of rice. Try to brush your child’s teeth first and then afterwards let them try themselves, they will just have a play with it but it will get them used to the idea of holding a toothbrush. You should be brushing your baby’s teeth until he/she is old enough to hold the brush themselves usually this is around age 6. Do not let them run around with the toothbrush as they might fall and have an accident.
The first oral health assessment can be provided by our children dentistry here at Coomera Dental Care. Our dentists here on the Gold Coast are patient and caring towards to young children. You can book your child’s appointment either by phone 5580 4811 or on our website at www.coomeradentalcentre.com.au/