Watching Your Child’s Oral Hygiene Practices
Pediatric dental care is an important part of your child’s development. Hence, it is to the parents’ advantage that they have the proper information to guide them in instilling good oral habits in their young. The case of toothbrushing and the use of toothpaste is a case in point.
In 2014, the ADA revised its position on the use of fluoride toothpaste with children under two years of age. To prevent early onset of tooth decay, children are exposed to flouride tooth brushing in a consistent and correct manner. This enables the strengthening of baby enamel so that it goes on to proper development.
The ADA recommends that children use a smear of toothpaste (size of a grain of rice) from the first tooth until age 3. From 3 to 6 years, children should use a pea-sized amount of paste. These amounts help limit the exposure of children to fluoride from ingested dentifrice to levels below those suggested by National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (0.05 mg/kg/day).
Excessive fluoride ingestion may result in fluorosis during the period in which permanent teeth are developing. Fluorosis can range from mild, in which white flecks or striations appear on the tooth, to severe, which may result in brown spots and/or pitting of the enamel. In addition to the appropriate amount of toothpaste to be used, the ADA recommends that caregivers supervise children during brushing to ensure that the children spit rather than swallow the paste.
Parental supervision of the children while brushing can teach them to remain personally responsible throughout their childhood and while growing up. That they are using the right products for oral hygiene is also part of the monitoring The ADA seal of acceptance has always helped parents in their confident choices for safe and effective products to use, ADA-approved and consistent with the scientific claims.
The right size toothbrush when kids start brushing is also important. This can make the practice of good oral hygiene fun and effective for kids, especially if brushes are colorful, with soft bristles, a good grip. Mouth washes can be useful for all age groups as well. heck with your dentist or dental hygienist to make the right choice, and ensure your child enjoys a cavity-free childhood.
Child-Friendly Dental Practice in Bellevue
Initiate your child into proper oral hygiene practices at home. Don’t forget to also introduce your young one to a children dentist, from whom the child will learn the reasons why a good toothbrush and the correct toothpaste are so important for a sparkling smile and fresh breath.
