Wichita Dentist – Your Child’s Teeth
A new baby is an exciting time in a family’s life! Even before your baby is born, you can start to protect their oral health. Decay-causing bacteria can be passed from a mother to her unborn child, so a healthy diet and good brushing and flossing techniques can prevent dental disease in both your child’s and your future.
As your baby starts to have their first teeth appear, you can wipe their gums with a damp cloth to remove any plaque or leftover food to protect new teeth after each feeding. You can also begin brushing their teeth twice a day as soon as teeth appear. To protect their sensitive gums and new teeth, use a soft-bristled, child-sized toothbrush, and a grain-of-rice-sized amount of toothpaste.
When can I make my child’s first dental appointment?
You can call us at Wichita Family Dental to make your child’s first dental visit. It’s important to have their first appointment after their first tooth appears, but no later than their first birthday.
At their first visit, we will:
• Review your child’s health history
• Do a complete oral exam
• Clean the teeth and show you how to properly clean your child’s teeth at home
• Discuss teething, pacifier use, or finger/thumbsucking habits
• Discuss treatment if needed and schedule the next check-up
As your child grows and more teeth appear it is important to brush twice a day for two minutes and floss every day. Brushing alone can’t reach all of the grooves between your teeth, so flossing is a very important step to good dental hygiene.
Diet and Your Child’s Teeth
What your child eats and how often they eat it can affect their teeth. Bacteria and sugar make acids that attack the teeth and cause tooth decay over time. Try to avoid sugary foods and drinks in your child’s diet. Offer water and healthy foods like fruit, vegetables, or cheese instead of sugary soda, juice, or snacks. Limiting between-meal snacks is a great way to prevent tooth decay. If your child does have a sugary snack or drink, have them rinse their mouth out with water after consuming the sugary food and brush their teeth, if possible, to prevent it from sitting on the teeth for a long period of time.
Remember, don’t wait to take your child to the dentist until pain or a dental emergency happens. Regular dental exams and professional cleanings can help your child have a lifetime of healthy smiles!
If you have any questions about your child’s dental health or first dental visit, feel free to call Wichita Family Dental at (316) 630-9339.
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