Caring for your kid’s teeth is just as important as feeding him or her 
healthy foods and going to the doctor for check-ups. Baby teeth reserve space in your child’s mouth for permanent teeth, so it’s important to take good care of them.
Here are some ways you as a parent can care for your child’s teeth and set him or her up for a lifetime of good oral hygiene!
Caring for Baby’s Teeth
- As soon as your child gets his or her first tooth, it’s time to start brushing using water.
- Now is also the time to schedule his or her first dentist appointment.
- Milk and juice contain sugars that can cause decay if they’re allowed to linger on a baby’s teeth, a condition known as baby bottle mouth. Wiping the teeth and gums with water on a daily basis will help remove the damage-causing bacteria.
Taking Care of a Child’s Teeth
- Be sure to supervise your child when he or she brushes, as you will likely need to help.
- Young children need only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to brush. Make sure your child doesn’t swallow more toothpaste than necessary.
- Flossing can be especially difficult for small children. You will need to do this for them, or possibly find flossing tools that are easier for them to use.
The sooner you begin teaching your child about oral health care, the better. Help your child develop good habits early on by making flossing and brushing a regular and important part of your entire household’s routine.
Other Ways to Help
Beyond helping with brushing and flossing, a good way to improve your kid’s oral health is to help him or her develop a healthy attitude about going to the dentist. Even if going to the dentist makes you nervous, try not to project that fear onto your child.
- Set a good example by going to the dentist on a regular basis yourself, and he or she will likely grow up to continue regular visits.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Instead, provide water, which will help wash away food particles and bacteria.
Taking care of your kid’s teeth doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. By simply developing a few good oral care habits at home, you can take excellent care of your child’s teeth long-term.