Dental care should begin long before your child’s first tooth develops. Although your baby’s teeth can’t be seen in the early months, they are formed, but have yet to erupt from the gums.
Poor dental hygiene promotes tooth decay. Left untreated, the decay may enter the underlying bone structure, which can affect the development of permanent teeth. In other words, your child’s teeth may be improperly positioned as he grows.
Sugar is Not that Sweet Now, is it?
Sugar consumption during the early stage of life (eg sucking honey-dipped pacifiers), accompanied with poor oral hygiene, is the dominant factor in causing tooth decay.
When Should I Start?
It is never too early to start taking care of your child’s teeth as early oral care will benefit him in his later years.
| Age 0-1 year | Age 2-6 years | |
| What Can I do to Keep My Child’s Teeth Clean? |
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| Simple Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay |
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Brush, Brush, Brush Your Teeth…
Brushing can help prevent tooth decay but you need to make sure your child knows how to brush properly. Here are some tips on brushing to maintain his mouth’s cleanliness:
- Brush at least twice a day, after waking up and before going to bed. Plaque build-up speeds up during bedtime due to lower saliva production.
- Teach proper brushing technique. Let him know that brushing only the front teeth will not guarantee a clean mouth. The sides and the back of the teeth are just as important in maintaining the cleanliness of his mouth.
- Don’t rush to brush. Spend at least 3 minutes each time he brushes.
I Don’t Wanna Go!
Dental experts recommend regular check ups at least twice a year, As much as most children (and even adults) dislike going to the dentist, early and regular oral care ensures less (painful) dental visits in the future!
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