While primary teeth do fall out eventually to make room for a child's permanent teeth, it is still very important to care for primary teeth properly. Tooth decay in infants and young children is a common problem, and there are several things that parents can do to prevent this from happening. If you are a parent, use the following tips to keep your child's primary teeth healthy and prevent tooth decay.
Do Not Let Your Child Fall Asleep While Feeding
A major cause of tooth decay is the fact that many parents are not aware that letting a young child fall asleep with a bottle of milk or formula or while nursing can be very damaging to primary teeth. When young children fall asleep while feeding, they often do not completely swallow all of the breast milk or formula; the liquid then pools on the teeth, and the sugars can help feed the bacteria that cause tooth decay.
Ideally, a child should have a bottle or nurse while awake. If your little one has become accustomed to falling asleep with a bottle, make sure that you only put water in it.
Avoid Sharing Saliva
As a parent, you may have bacteria in your mouth that can cause decay to your child's young teeth. Try to be vigilant about not doing things that can lead to sharing saliva. For example, if you're eating with your child, don't share utensils, and avoid cleaning toys or a pacifier with your own saliva.
Brush Your Child's Teeth
Toddlers and young children typically do not have the coordination or skills to properly brush their own teeth. If your child enjoys trying, let him or her do the initial brushing, but make sure that you finish up the job and clean each tooth with the toothbrush. It is important to use a toothpaste designed for children that contains fluoride to help keep the teeth strong and healthy.
Limit Sugary Drinks
If you want to prevent tooth decay, limit the amount of sugary drinks that your child consumes. It is typically recommended that young children refrain from having soda, and if you give juice to your child, try to water it down to help reduce the sugar content. If your child does have a sugary drink, try to brush his or her teeth immediately afterwards. When it is not possible to brush, have your child drink some water to help remove sugary residue from the teeth.
Talk to a company such as Kids First Pediatric Dentistry for more information.
Share28 November 2016
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