How to Achieve Effective Teeth Care in Children?

A regular teeth care routine in children is crucial to prevent tooth decay and gum problems. Poor oral hygiene and more sugar intake invite more bacteria on the tooth surface, which leads to cavities.

Apart from this, improper bottle feeding, low salivary flow in children, developmental enamel defects, lack of awareness of dental care, low socioeconomic status, and inadequate use of fluoridated toothpaste are some of the risk factors for tooth decay. Let’s learn how can we achieve effective teeth care in children.

How to keep cavities away?

Here are some child dental care tips to prevent tooth decay.

• Brushing twice: Brushing twice will help remove plaque from the teeth. Plaque contains bacteria causing cavities.

Right brushing technique for kids:

Hold the toothbrush at 45-degree angles to the teeth.

Brush in circular strokes on all areas inside, outside and on chewing surfaces.

Brush gently with the kids’ toothbrush for 2-3 minutes.

• Toothpaste: Which paste is good for kids? Kids under the age of 2 years, should use fluoride-free toothpaste to avoid ingestion into the stomach. Children from 2 to 6 years can use low-fluoride toothpaste. Parents should ask the children to spit after brushing. Pea-sized toothpaste is sufficient to brush all the teeth.
• Flossing: Flossing aids in cleaning between teeth. It stimulates gums and prevents food particle lodgement inside gums. Parents should guide children to floss 2 to 3 times weekly.
• Less sugar intake: Sugar-containing food candies and canned juices can erode the enamel, and subsequently form cavities. Include fresh fruits and vegetables in the child’s diet. Ask them to rinse after snacking in between meals.
• School dental check-up: School dental check-ups facilitate early detection of caries, gum diseases, orthodontic problems etc. Experts can guide parents about the importance of paediatric dental care and preventive measures.

How do you encourage children to take care of their teeth?

Use simple techniques, and brush every day with your child. Demonstrate the right technique of brushing. From the beginning allow your child to hold a brush, and tell or read stories about oral hygiene. Motivate your child to eat a healthy diet.

These are surefire ways to achieve effective teeth care in children. In kids, the spread of caries is faster, so parents should not neglect any dental problems. Afterwards, the tooth pain may interfere with eating, speaking, the child’s focus etc. Ensure regular dental checks to maintain healthy teeth in children.

How can we help?

Vigour360 helps schools with advanced dental screening in children, and mopromotespromote health awareness and education from proficient doctors in India.

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