Children often think they are more grown-up than they actually are. In many ways, this perception is to be encouraged as it helps them become independent. However, there are times when they need to be reminded that you know best. Looking after teeth is one of those times.
After all, it’s easy for a child not to worry about the future, everything seems so far away.
That’s why you need to develop the right techniques to care for your child’s teeth.
Regular Dental Visits
The first step is to book an appointment with a reputable paediatric dentist Sydney. They will carefully check your child’s teeth and alert you to any issues. It’s possible if your child isn’t brushing them properly, that they will have plaque and even cavities starting to form.
Regular dental visits will spot this and help to ensure your child improves their brushing technique and any cavities are dealt with.
Visiting a dentist will also allow them to assess the alignment of your child’s teeth. It’s possible that their teeth are slightly out of line and need to be corrected. Fortunately, this is very easy when they are young as braces work quickly and effectively.
They are also much more common, making it easier for your child to accept wearing them.
You should note that visiting the dentist regularly with your child will help them to accept it as a normal event. That makes it easier for them to adhere to dental visits as adults and take the best possible care of their teeth.
Brushing Techniques
Your child should be supervised brushing their teeth until you are happy they are doing it properly. That means, brushing for two minutes, having the toothbrush at a slight angle toward the gums, and not brushing too hard as this can damage the teeth and gums.
Once you’re confident they are brushing properly you can let them brush by themselves, but make sure it’s two minutes in the morning and evening.
Consider Family History
There is some controversy regarding fluoride and whether it is beneficial or not. Fluoride is added to many kinds of toothpaste and even to the water you drink. The fluoride in toothpaste isn’t designed to be consumed, simply brushing it on your teeth will help to strengthen the outer enamel layer. But, if you’re concerned about your child swallowing the toothpaste you should use a non-fluoride toothpaste.
Don’t forget, if your family has a history of cavities you may have weaker teeth and this could be passed on to your children. In this instance, it’s a good idea to ensure they have a fluoride toothpaste.
In case you’re wondering, children, should start getting their teeth at around d the age of two and there is no harm in starting the brushing procedure then. Of course, at that age, you’ll have to do it for them. Regular visits to the dentist mean that they will wear a brace, if needed, in their early teens, it will be gone by adulthood.
