National Children’s Dental Health Month

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and it’s a great time to focus on building strong oral care habits for your little ones.

As a parent, early attention to your child’s dental hygiene can set them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Whether it’s starting with gum care before their teeth appear or preparing for their first dental visit, these early steps are key to ensuring a healthy smile from the very beginning.

Caring for Gums Before Teeth Appear
Even before your baby’s first tooth appears, it’s important to begin cleaning their gums. Wipe their gums gently after feedings with a soft washcloth or a finger brush dipped in warm water. This removes bacteria and food particles and helps your baby get used to the feeling of brushing in preparation for when their teeth come in.

When Teeth Start to Erupt
As your child’s first teeth start to emerge around 6-10 months, you can begin brushing with a soft infant toothbrush. Use a very small amount of fluoride-free toothpaste until they’re around 2 years old. Gently brush their teeth in a circular motion, helping them form good habits early. It’s also important to remember that baby teeth can develop at different rates, so be patient with your child’s individual timeline.

Understanding Tooth Development
Tooth development follows a general pattern. Typically, the lower front teeth appear first, followed by the upper front teeth. Canines usually come in by the end of the first year, and molars start to emerge around 12-18 months. By age 6, your child will start losing their baby teeth, which will gradually be replaced by permanent teeth. Remember that children develop at different speeds, so don’t worry if your child’s teeth appear a little earlier or later than expected.

Scheduling the First Dental Visit
We recommend bringing your child to the dentist by their first birthday or once their first tooth erupts. Early dental visits help your child become familiar with the dentist and reduce dental anxiety as they grow. During this first visit, the dentist will check your child’s oral health, offer guidance on teething, and answer any questions you may have about their dental development.

Making Dental Visits Enjoyable
Many kids feel anxious about their first dental visit, but there are plenty of ways to ease their nerves. Explain the process in simple, positive terms, like how the dentist is there to help them keep their teeth strong and clean. Encourage your child by talking about the fun aspects of visiting the dentist, such as sitting in the “special chair” or getting a sticker at the end. Bringing a favourite toy or stuffed animal can also provide comfort, and you might want to watch a fun children’s cartoon about visiting the dentist together beforehand to help them feel more comfortable.

Establishing Healthy Habits
By introducing a consistent routine early, your child will get into the habit of caring for their teeth and gums properly. Brushing together, making dental visits a positive experience, and creating a fun, positive atmosphere around oral care will help your child grow into an adult with healthy teeth. Use positive reinforcement to celebrate their efforts and encourage them to take pride in their oral hygiene.

Tips for Oral Care at Home

Creating a positive, consistent routine at home is essential for setting your child up for long-term oral health. Here are some tips for parents to make oral care fun and effective:

• Brush Together: Make brushing time a family affair! Brush your teeth alongside your child so they can mimic your actions and learn proper technique.
• Use Fun Toothbrushes and Toothpaste: Let your child choose their toothbrush with fun colours or characters and pick a child-friendly toothpaste flavour they enjoy.
• Encourage Flossing: As soon as your child has two teeth that touch, it’s time to start flossing. You can use floss picks designed for kids to make it easier for them.
• Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks: Too much sugar can lead to cavities, so try to limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially between meals. Water or milk is always the best choice.
• Establish a Routine: Make brushing twice a day (morning and night) a regular part of their daily routine. Use a timer or sing a song to make brushing for two minutes more fun!

Book your child first dentist appointment today – 01723 670 500 or Info@NewbyDental.co.uk