Starting good dental habits early is one of the best ways to help your child enjoy a lifetime of positive oral and overall health. You already know the basics of oral hygiene: like brushing for two minutes, twice a day, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly. It’s true that what’s good for your own smile is also necessary for your child’s, says the family dentist in Carmel.
Has your toddler had their first visit to the dentist yet? If they’re over the age of two (i.e. into official toddler-dom), it’s time for them to come into the Indy Dental Group in Carmel. This first visit is important because it gives your child’s dentist a chance to confirm that everything is developing properly in your child’s smile. You can also ask any questions you may have about your little one’s oral health and hygiene during this appointment.
Some common questions parents may have regard fluoride, tooth eruption, diet, and frequency/technique for brushing and flossing. At Indy Dental Group, we understand that patient education is just as important as regular hygiene attention — and we always schedule plenty of time for a child’s first visit.
How Should I Brush My Toddler’s Teeth?
When your baby turns two, you can increase the amount of toothpaste you use from a rice sized to a pea sized amount. Floss teeth as soon as there are two sides touching each other. You’ll need to continue brushing and flossing your child’s teeth for them until they reach age 6 or so — they won’t have the dexterity to successfully brush until then.
Brush teeth for two minutes, once in the morning and at night before bed. If you meet resistance in getting your child to brush regularly, try keeping a progress chart. You may want to add in small incentives for good oral hygiene if that makes sense for you and your family, like a movie night or special meal together.
Other Special Considerations
Fluoride exposure through tap water and toothpaste strengthens tooth enamel to protect your child’s smile against cavities. If you prefer to drink filtered water, however, your child may be missing out on valuable exposure to the mineral. Make sure your little one is brushing with a fluoride toothpaste if so. Your dentist can also apply a topical fluoride treatment for additional remineralization.
If your child develops a thumbsucking habit, don’t panic. It’s nothing uncommon, but the habit can cause issues with the proper development of the permanent teeth. Try to halt thumbsucking by talking to your child about what’s making them nervous (thumbsucking is often the result of anxiety). Applying a bad-tasting solution to the thumbnail or a glove worn on the hand can help to curb the habit during sleep. Most thumbsucking habits go away later — if not, a specialist can intervene with a habit-breaking appliance if necessary.
Come See the Children’s Dentist in Carmel!
When was your child’s last visit to the dentist? If it’s been a while, or if they still haven’t had their first appointment, don’t wait another minute. Schedule an appointment with the Indy Dental Group today!