Oral health care begins in childhood. The teeth and gums of the little ones in the house, like those of adults, run the risk of suffering from multiple diseases with negative effects on their health. One of the most frequent is cavities in children, mainly caused by poor hygiene and the consumption of certain foods in this population group.
When does tooth decay appear in children, and why?
Known as bottle tooth decay, the action of plaque bacteria can begin with the eruption of the first milk teeth in a nursing baby. If the problem is serious best to consult a children’s dentist about this and they will treat your child professionally. It is a disease associated with the frequent intake of sugars and is mainly related to the bad habit of sleeping with the bottle in the mouth. This type of tooth enamel damage can occur in children between 6 months and five years.
1. Take good care of your baby’s teeth.
- From birth to 12 months. Keep your baby’s mouth clean by gently wiping a clean baby cloth over his gums. Once you notice the first teeth, brush gently with water and a soft baby toothbrush. Check with your child’s doctor or dentist about the use of fluoride. Use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice.
- 3 to 6 years. Brush your child’s teeth twice a day. Use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste the size of a pea.
2. Do not let your child lie down with a baby bottle or food. Not only does this expose your child’s teeth to sugars, but it also puts them at risk for ear infections and choking.
3. Give your child a bottle only during meals. Do not use a bottle or baby cup as a pacifier, pacifier, or pacifier. Also, do not allow your child to walk with these items or drink from them for very long periods.
4. Check your home water for fluoride. If your household tap water comes from a well, your child’s doctor or dentist may want to test a water sample for natural fluoride content. If your household tap water does not contain enough fluoride, your child’s doctor or dentist will prescribe an appropriate fluoride supplement if your child is at high risk for tooth decay.
5. Tell your child to drink from a regular glass as soon as possible, preferably for 12 to 15 months. By drinking from a glass, you are less likely to collect fluid around your teeth. Also, you can’t take a glass to bed.
6. If your child must have a bottle or baby cup for long periods, fill it only with water. If your child is thirsty while traveling by car, provide only water.
7. Do not let your child eat sweet or sticky foods, such as candy or candy, gummies, cookies, or roll-ups. Foods like crackers and potato chips also contain sugar. These are especially bad if your child eats them too often as snacks. and you may need to help kids to love natural foods more than sugar They should only be eaten at mealtime. Teach your child to use his tongue to remove food debris from teeth immediately.