Visiting the dentist is an important milestone in any child’s life. At Silverlake Dental Center, you can ensure that every trip to the dentist ends with a smile. Dental care for children should begin around the time when the first tooth erupts. By starting proper dental hygiene routines at an early age, you can help to ensure that your son or daughter experiences fantastic oral health for a lifetime. Read on for a closer look at some essential tips for caring for your child’s teeth.
Watch for Primary Teeth
After your child is born, he or she will start to develop teeth at around 6 to 9 months of age. To help take care of these primary teeth, you will want to inspect your child’s mouth to determine precisely when they come in. Even before your child gets his or her first tooth, you will want to wipe your baby’s gums with a damp washcloth. This practice will help remove bacteria and other harmful substances from the surface of the gums.
Teach Proper Brushing Habits
Once your child has developed one or more teeth, it will be time to start teaching your son or daughter about proper brushing habits. Very young children will need to be supervised throughout the brushing process. When you are teaching your child how to brush, you will want to show her how to angle the brush properly and move the bristles in order to clean both the teeth and gums.
Make Regular Dental Appointments
Visiting the dentist is one of the most important parts of caring for you child’s teeth. Your child’s first dental appointment will typically be scheduled when their first tooth is erupted or by their first birthday. By starting to visit the dentist at this early age, you can help to ensure that her teeth remain healthy, throughout every stage of her growth. A dental practice specializing in family dentistry is the perfect place to schedule your child’s first appointment.