Children's Dental Care Guide

Starting good oral hygiene habits early is crucial for your child's dental health. Begin cleaning your baby's gums even before their first tooth appears. When teeth emerge, use a soft infant toothbrush with water. Around age 2, introduce a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Make brushing fun by using colorful toothbrushes, playing music, or turning it into a game. Schedule your child's first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Monitor sugar intake and avoid putting them to bed with milk or juice bottles. Consider dental sealants for cavity-prone molars. Teach proper brushing techniques and supervise until they develop good habits, usually around age 7-8. Regular dental check-ups every six months help catch problems early. For older children, discuss the importance of wearing mouthguards during sports activities. Remember that your child learns by example, so maintain good oral hygiene habits yourself.