Good oral hygiene habits are necessary at any age. Research shows that one’s oral health is connected to their overall health, which is why establishing a good routine early is vital. Most children have around twenty primary teeth, replaced by 32 permanent teeth as they get older. While permanent teeth can come in as early as 6 to 7 years old, taking good care of one’s primary and permanent teeth can lead to healthy teeth and gums through adulthood. While taking care of your child’s teeth is highly important, it’s also important to take good care of their gums. Below you will find helpful information on how to keep your kids’ gums healthy. For regular checkups, visit the best place for periodontics Chino Hills has around.
Properly Caring for Children’s Teeth and Gums
Parents of young children may often wonder when they should begin caring for their children’s teeth, what products to use, and when to bring them to the dentist. The following tips are geared toward parents who have children between the ages of 9 months to 3 years old. If your child gets their first tooth before 9 months, these tips likely also apply. However, it’s important to discuss it with a dentist to be sure.
- First Tooth: Make an appointment with the dentist as soon as your child gets their first tooth. If your child hasn’t gotten their first tooth by the time they turn 1, head to a dentist to see if there are any issues.
- Drinking: Begin teaching your child how to drink from a cup at around six months old. You should also refrain from putting your child to bed with a bottle of formula, milk, juice, or other sugary drinks.
- Health and Nutrition: One of the best ways to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy is by eating a healthy and nutritious diet. Avoid sweets, starchy foods, and sticky foods and drinks. This can cause tooth decay and possibly lead to gum disease.
- Modeling: Lead by example through modeling good behavior. Make sure you brush your own teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, use toothpaste with fluoride, floss at least once a day, and use mouthwash thirty minutes after meals if you can’t brush.
Importance of Gum Health in Children
Your pediatric dentist Chino Hills may discuss your child’s dental health with you as good dental health correlates with good overall health. Healthy baby teeth and gums can help your child eat and speak well during childhood. Additionally, they can also shape your child’s face and help their adult teeth slide into place properly.
Avoiding dental disease is important for your child’s dental and overall health. Dental disease is the most common childhood disease, and it can be easily prevented with proper oral care. The research shows a link between good oral health as a child and healthier outcomes in adults. Starting good oral hygiene habits early is vital to your child’s dental health as they age.
You can begin oral care routines with your child early. You can use a clean, damp washcloth or a soft toothbrush to clean their gums and teeth. Do this after every snack, meal, and before bedtime. Once they have their first dentist visit, consult with the dentist about steps you should take every day for your child’s oral health. Start early and consult with a pediatric dentist to be sure your child’s teeth and gums are in good shape!
Pediatric Dentist in Chino Hills
If your child has gotten their first tooth or you want to consult with a pediatric dentist about your child’s oral health, contact the dentists at Dental Care of Chino Hills. The dentists at Dental Care of Chino Hills are skilled in pediatric dentistry and can ensure that your child will be taken care of. The dentists provide their patients with complete treatment plans to help with any dental issue. Contact the office today for an appointment! Knowing how to keep your kids’ gums healthy is absolutely essential!