Tips for tiny teeth from the Tooth Fairy

We know getting or losing that first tooth are both fun milestones! We also know teething patterns vary from child to child as some children don’t have any teeth by their first birthday, while others have a mouthful by then. Here are a few dental hygiene tips that can help prevent tooth decay and problems later on!

    • -- Your child will have 20 baby teeth, which will later be replaced by permanent teeth. A baby’s first tooth can come in as early as three months or as late as 1 year of age, however primary teeth usually begin to break through the gums when a child is about 6 months old. Most kids have all of their primary teeth by the time they are three years old.
    • -- So, when should your child first visit our office? According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, or AAPD, children should visit our office by their first birthday. It is important that your child’s newly-erupted teeth (erupting at 6-12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning.
    • -- Blueberries, cheese, yogurt, whole wheat bread and whole grain cereal are all nutritional powerhouses for your child. Blueberries are loaded with Vitamin C, as well as folic acid, minerals, fiber and disease-fighting phytochemicals, which have shown to help prevent cancer and diabetes. Bread provides your little one with iron, vitamins, magnesium, and zinc while a bowl of cereal provides much-needed calcium and fiber. And low fat yogurt? Always an excellent source of calcium, especially when whipped up in a parfait with berries and granola.
    • -- Kids love candy. But while those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, treats are known to damage teeth. Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! Sour and fruity candy, such as Starburst and Skittles, are the worst for your teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which is known to ruin your child’s enamel. Instead, try softer treats, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth foods. Those who indulge should make sure they brush and floss between teeth, as well as at the gum line.
    • -- Brushing your child’s teeth is crucial. But while getting your child’s teeth clean is important, over-brushing can actually damage his or her teeth or gums. Brushing too hard can wear away the tooth enamel and cause sensitivity. Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the tooth surface and use short, gentle back and forth strokes. Make sure to clean all of the surfaces of your child's teeth, including inside, outside, and chewing surfaces and do not forget to brush his or her tongue.

Remember, a child’s oral health is closely linked to his or her overall health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular visits to our office helps kids get a jump start in maintaining a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Lastly, has it been six months since your child’s last visit to our office? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call to book an appointment! We look forward to seeing you!

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