HOW CAN I KEEP MY CHILDREN’S TEETH HEALTHY

Do you want to help your children to enjoy a healthy smile for the rest of their lives?

Nurturing them to establish the best routine for their teeth and gums gives them a great start on their oral health journey.

Here are 10 tips to help you to help them combat plaque:

How do you prevent plaque on children’s teeth?

1. Brush twice a day

Make sure your children brush with a fluoride toothpaste in the morning and at bedtime.

2. Buy the best toothbrush for your child

Choose a baby toothbrush or a child-sized brush with soft to medium bristles. Remember to change toothbrushes at least once every three months – sooner if the bristles are worn down.

3. Supervise brushing sessions

For younger children, brush their teeth yourself or watch and advise to make sure they’re doing a good job. And have some fun!

4. Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste

That’s all that’s needed for children aged between three and six.

AT WHAT AGE SHOULD A CHILD BRUSH THEIR OWN TEETH?

5. Independent brushing at the right time

By seven or eight years old your child will probably be ready to brush their own teeth. Continue to check they are thoroughly brushing for at least two minutes.

6. Use fluoride toothpaste

Fluoride toothpaste helps to reduce the risk of decay and also helps to strengthen tooth enamel. Children aged under six can use toothpaste containing a lower fluoride concentration.

What are the worst foods for children’s teeth?

7. Don’t go overboard on sugar

Things like fizzy drinks and sweet treats can contribute to tooth decay. Sugar interacts with plaque and enamel-attacking acid is formed. Prolonged exposure to acid can lead to decay.

8. Be careful with dried fruit

Sticky fruits can stick around on the teeth encouraging decay. Rinse the mouth out with water after eating and brush if possible.

9. Normalise dental check-ups

Get your child used to visiting the dentist and understanding it’s nothing to be afraid of. Your dentist can make sure everything is progressing nicely and can also remove plaque build-up.