Pediatric Dentistry 101: Check out These Easy-to-Follow Tips

Proper oral hygiene needs to start as early as possible. Some people think that their kids should start seeing a dentist only after they have developed all of their baby teeth. That should not be the case, though. You should take your baby to a dentist when he/she develops his/her first tooth.

This dental visit gives the dentist a chance to check for any abnormalities during development. This article will cover more on children’s dentistry.

How Can I Help My Kid Grow Up Cavity-Free?

Children between the age of six and ten years are usually prone to decay. Sometimes back, it was almost impossible for a kid to grow without being affected by a cavity. Nowadays, your child can grow up cavity-free if they have a pediatric dentist. Some tips a dentist might give you include:

• Use fluoridated toothpaste to brush your kid’s teeth at least twice a day.
• Floss your child’s teeth daily to remove foods caught between them.
• Use fluoridated water, if possible, or visit the dentist for fluoride treatment. This treatment helps prevent decay and improves the health of your child’s bones.
• Get sealants placed on the chewing surface of your kid’s premolars.
• Visit a dentist in 77441 if you are in Fulshear for regular checkups.

Importance of Diet in Children Dentistry

A balanced diet is essential for both oral and overall health. It can help prevent cavities as well as improve the health of your kid’s teeth. All foods can cause cavities, but snacks are usually the worst. Limit your kid’s intake of snacks and other sugary foods. Brush your kid’s teeth after he/she eats snacks to avoid plaque buildup that leads to cavities.

Increase your child’s intake for cheese and other milk products because they can help build stronger bones. Cheese also stimulates the generation of saliva, which helps clear carbohydrates in your kid’s mouth. It also helps neutralize any acids in your mouth.

Also, ensure your kid consumes as much fruits and vegetables as possible. These foods contain fiber, which is important to your kid’s health. Peanuts and cashew nuts can also help fight decay.

Baby Teeth are Not Permanent, Why the Special Care?

Yes, baby teeth will be removed eventually to pave the way for permanent teeth, but that doesn’t mean they should be neglected. The baby teeth have a significant role to play in your child’s development. They help your little one talk, chew, and smile properly.

The baby teeth also hold your kid’s jaw for permanent teeth. If he/she loses a baby tooth too soon, the nearby teeth are likely to encroach the space left, which can lead to the development of crooked permanent teeth. Also, your kid’s overall health is affected if his/her oral health is poor.

The Best Way to Clean Your Kid’s Teeth

You should start taking good care of your kid’s oral health way before the first tooth erupts. Use a soft sponge to clean his/her gums after feeding him/her. Start using a kid’s toothbrush to clean your baby’s teeth when they erupt. The toothbrush should be small with soft bristles. Your pediatric dentist can help you choose the right toothbrush.

Does My Kid Need a Mouthguard?

If your child is active in sports, it is wise to buy a custom fit mouthguard. These mouthguards are comfortable and will not affect your kid’s performance in sports. They are even more essential if your kid is undergoing orthodontic treatment.

How Can I Stop My Kid from Sucking Her Thumb?

Most children suck their fingers and thumbs. By the time they are four, they grow out of this behavior, so there is usually no damage caused to the permanent teeth. However, some kids continue to suck their thumbs for a long time. If your child continues sucking their fingers and after the permanent teeth erupt, be sure to contact a dentist near you for treatment.

Smile Bright Dental Studio

If you need a dentist in Fulshear, TX, you are in the right place. Our clinic is well-equipped with the latest technology to ensure you receive the best dental care. We are family-friendly, so you can count on us to help your whole family. You can also count on us for emergency dentistry. Book an appointment online today!