February is National Children's Dental Health month and in honor of this, the pediatric dentists at Chestnut Dental have the following helpful tips on how to care for your child's teeth at home.
TAKE HOME TIPS
- Children may cry when you brush their teeth. Children may cry when you change their diaper. You are not hurting them - you are helping them.
- Children do not have the manual dexterity to brush their teeth on their own until they can at least tie their own shoes.
- Cavities are caused by multiple factors. A cavity is a bacterial infection, not just a hole in the tooth. Regular dental visits and risk assessments can help reduce the chance of your child getting a cavity.
- Fluoride is a naturally occurring ion, and when used properly and in moderation, is a very safe and effective way to reduce cavities.
- Limit snacking and “grazing”. Every time your child eats it can lead to an acid attack on the teeth and increase chance for cavities.
- Sugar is everywhere - yogurt, raisins, packaged snacks - even “organic” and “all-natural” can be high in sugar. The American Academy of Pediatrics and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends no fruit juice for children under 1 year and no more than 4-6 ounces of juice per day in toddlers and children 4-6 years of age. Juice is not a substitute for fresh fruit and vegetables, which provides fiber and contain less sugar and calories than juice. The key is to reduce the length of time and frequency teeth are exposed to sugars. Natural sugars (glucose, sucrose and fructose) and carbohydrates are broken down into sugars that can make cavities. Best is to avoid juice or only give one cup a day at a meal time and then brush after. Lots of water in between meals is great for the teeth and body!
- Make tooth brushing time an enjoyable ritual at least twice a day, one of those times should be at bedtime. Be creative and have fun with your child while they brush their teeth. Sing a song, play a game or use a toothbrushing app or video.
41 North Road
Bedford MA
(339) 234-5075
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