Did you know that 28% of children between two and five develop at least one cavity? Additionally, 20% of children ages five to eleven have at least one untreated decayed tooth. This can cause your little one to be in a world of discomfort and pain stemming from their teeth. Fortunately, tooth decay and cavities are completely avoidable with prevention tactics and a proper oral hygiene routine. To help you get started, your pediatric dentist in Nashua is sharing four questions you should ask your child’s dental hygienist at their next appointment.
Why Do Baby Teeth Matter?
Between the ages of six and twelve, children’s primary teeth are replaced with their permanent set. Since “baby” teeth are only temporary, many parents aren’t as diligent about their child’s oral hygiene routine as they should be. Fortunately, a dental hygienist can provide insight into the vital function your child’s teeth play in their smile, speech, and bite. From there, they can share how to take care of them properly.
How Should I Clean My Child’s Teeth?
From your child’s first tooth to their last molars, there are different recommendations for how to take care of them to make them last. For example, when your child is a baby, a finger brush will effectively clean their teeth and massage their gums. By the time they are in elementary school, they need to use a soft-bristle toothbrush twice a day and thoroughly floss daily. Through each stage of their life, your dental hygienist can guide you and your child to the right steps to take to keep their teeth clean healthy, strong, and beautiful.
When Should I Introduce Toothpaste with Fluoride?
Toothpaste plays a crucial role in removing bacteria, food particles, and plaque from your teeth. However, different amounts of toothpaste should be used depending on their age. Generally, only a smear of toothpaste should be used with children until they can spit it out afterward, which is generally around three years old. From there, a pea-sized amount can be used to properly clean the surface of their teeth. At your child’s dentist appointment, the dental hygienist can show you how to dispense the right amount of toothpaste and how to encourage good oral care habits.
Do You Have Recommendations to Discourage Thumb Sucking?
When your child is young, they may develop habits that are soothing to them but harmful for their teeth. Culprit number one is sucking their thumb. If your child does not naturally grow out of this habit, then your dental hygienist may be able to help! The best place to start is with attainable goals, like no thumb sucking one hour before bedtime. You can also place a sticker on the calendar for each day they don’t do it, and then provide a fun incentive at the end of the day or week!
As a parent, few things light up your world like your child’s smile. To ensure your child’s teeth are healthy and strong for years to come, it is important to ask their dental hygienist questions regarding their oral care. That way, you can protect your child from painful tooth decay, expensive extractions, and emergency dental visits.
About the Practice
Led by Dr. Bassel Boulos and Dr. Amelia Albright, the team at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics use their expertise, training, and talent to provide your child with the absolute best dental care. Whether your child has not yet celebrated their first birthday or is about to leave for college, each member of their staff is ready to help with comprehensive treatment plans that are tailored to their unique smile. If you are looking for a dentist for your kids in Nashua, don’t hesitate to visit their website or give them a call at 603-635-1166.