At any stage in life, it’s important for both young children and adults to take proactive measures in protecting their teeth and gums. Through simple but effective dental care habits, you can increase oral hygiene significantly, thus preventing dental problems in the future. At our Barrie dental office, we are big promoters of prevention, as these measures invariably lead to longer-lasting teeth at a lower cost.
Without proper dental hygiene, babies and children can be at risk of dental health issues down the road; this may include trouble with eating, drinking, or even teething. From a young age, it’s strongly recommended that parents teach their children how to care for their teeth properly, as well as regular monitoring (especially at a young age) to ensure they are brushing and flossing their teeth correctly. Like anything, instilling positive habits at a young age will help to reinforce these healthy routines as one begins to age.
Oral Health Tips for Children to Prevent Future Dental Problems:
- When teeth begin to come in, clean your baby’s gums and teeth following every feeding with either a wet gauze pad or a soft child-appropriate toothbrush.
- Prior to using toothpaste with fluoride on your baby’s teeth, it’s strongly recommended that you consult a dentist first.
- Once a baby reaches the age of 1, regular dental visits at least 6 months apart are standard. These are important for the monitoring of growth and development, not just the teeth!
- Be wary of the sugar content in juice or sugary beverages. If they have sugary drinks, rinse their mouth out with plain water afterward; this will help remove some of the sugar remnants. Limit the frequency and duration of these drinks in order to prevent decay.
- Once a child develops teeth, flossing should be implemented at least once daily. This will help to reduce dental plaque which leads to gingivitis and cavities. Small mouths may be easier to floss with flosspiks (those small plastic handles with a short length of floss attached).
- As soon as it is possible, teeth should be brushed twice a day. Remember not to allow any food or drink other than water after bedtime brushing.
Oral Health Tips for Adults to Prevent Future Dental Problems:
- Eat wisely. Keep snacks that contain sugar and starches to a minimum. Fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber contribute to salivary flow, preventing early stages of tooth decay.
- Like children, flossing should be done at least once daily to help reduce dental plaque.
- Visit the dentist often. Check-ups can identify, prevent, and, in some cases, reverse early conditions of oral health problems. Teeth cleaning done by a professional dentist is important in deterring oral problems for children.