Important oral health tips for children

For a parent, one of their biggest priorities is to ensure that their child stays healthy and avoid any kind of illness or injury. While kids are resilient, their growing bodies require extra care and attention. Keeping the teeth clean through brushing and flossing, visiting the dentist regularly, and making sure kids get enough fluoride are the best ways to keep the teeth healthy.

How can kids keep their teeth clean?

Even before the kids first tooth comes, it is important to keep the gums clean by gently rubbing a clean and damp cloth over the gums after each feeding.

1. Children under 3 years old- Help your child brush their teeth twice a day for 2 minutes using a soft toothbrush with a smear (which is of the size of a grain of rice) of a toothpaste that contains Pot Marigold and Aloe leaf as they help in resisting decay, strengthens the enamel, promotes fresh breath and helps in gum care.

2. Children who are 3 years old or older- Help your child brush their teeth twice a day for 2 minutes using a pea-sized amount of salt toothpaste. Teach your kids to spit the toothpaste out. When your child has teeth that touch then help the floss about once a day.

3. Children 10 years and older- They brush and floss their teeth on their own. Help them remember to brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes and floss once a day.

When should kids visit the dentist?

Your child should see the dentist within 6 months when the first tooth comes in or by their first birthday. Going at a young age can help in detecting the problems early.

What happens at Dentist visits?

Firstly, to understand the problem, a short oral exam is conducted. First a thorough cleaning of the teeth is conducted and then an exam to check the teeth and gums.

Sometimes x-rays are also recommended to see inside the teeth and check for decay, a fluoride treatment brushed onto the teeth to prevent cavities or a dental sealant, a coating painted on the teeth to prevent tooth decay. X-rays are though, only taken if necessary.

why should kids brush their teeth twice a day?

children should brush their teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes covering all the surfaces of the teeth, including the front, back and other chewing surfaces, once in the morning and once before bedtime. Use a pea-sized amount of  toothpaste, one that is made for use in the morning which contains a harmonious blend of Pot Marigold and aloe leaf and the night one which contains activated charcoal and grapefruit water. Supervise your children to ensure that they brush properly and do not swallow the toothpaste.

Other healthy tips:

1. Consume limited sugar- Sweetened beverages like soda, juice drinks, sports drinks and flavored milks and sugary snacks like sticky candy. If your child doesn’t have these then serve at mealtimes and have them brush their teeth after.

2. Preventing dental injuries- Active children are prone to dental injuries from playing sports or even accidental falls. so make sure your child wears a mouthguard while playing sports to protect their teeth from injury. teach them to avoid chewing hard objects like ice, pencils as they can crack or damage teeth.

3. Eating healthy food- A balanced diet plays a key role in oral health. encourage your child to eat nutritious food which includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy products etc. limit the intake of sugary snacks and drinks as it can cause tooth decay.