Kids Club

There is nothing quite as beautiful as a child’s smile…….

Diet and Your Child’s Teeth
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. When combined with sugar from food and drinks, plaque bacteria produce acids that attack tooth enamel. Repeated acid attacks can break down enamel and eventually result in tooth decay.

Frequent snacks between meals expose teeth to repeated acid attacks. For good dental and overall health, be sure your child eats a balanced diet with foods from the major food groups.

Be mindful of the effects of frequent consumption of sugary beverages including juices, sodas and sports drinks and non-nutritious snack foods. If your child needs a between meal snack, choose nutritious foods and save sweets for mealtime.


Keeping That Smile Clean
Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day are important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Specific hygiene recommendations vary by the child’s age:

  • For children under the age of two, brush the teeth with water unless your child’s dentist recommends otherwise.
  • For children over age two. A pea sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is all a child needs. Be sure your child spits out and does not swallow the toothpaste.
  • By age seven, children may be able to brush their own teeth, but may require supervision until age ten or eleven.
  • Choose a child-size toothbrush for ease of use and replace it every 3-4 months or when it becomes worn.


Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens teeth and protects them from decay. It is found in many types of toothpaste and in prescribed supplements. In communities that have optimal amounts of fluoride in the drinking water, children may not need a fluoride supplement. Be sure to inform your child’s dentist if you are using bottled water or home water treatment system. Talk to your dentist about your child’s fluoride needs.

Protecting Teeth with Sealants
Sealants are a plastic material that the dentist applies to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Sealants form a barrier that protects teeth from plaque and acid attacks, and hold up well under the force of normal chewing. A dentist reapplies sealants when necessary during your child’s regular dental visits.

Flossing
Flossing is important to remove plaque from between teeth where a toothbrush can reach. At about age 10 or 11, your child should be able to clean between the teeth with floss or an inter-dental cleaner under your supervision. Your child’s dentist or hygienist can demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques.

The Importance of Regular Dental Visits
Regular dental check-ups and preventative dental care, such as cleanings, fluoride treatments and sealants, provide your child with “smile” insurance. Plan your child’s first dental visit within six months after the first baby tooth erupts, but no later than the first birthday.

The Importance of Dental Exams

  • Assess oral hygiene, injuries, cavities, or other problems;
  • Determine your child’s risk of developing tooth decay (cavities or caries);
  • Show how teeth are developing and spot hidden decay by using X-rays;
  • May prevent or reduce the severity of malocclusions (bad bite) in permanent teeth;
  • Provide key information to help you take care of your child’s overall health.


All Information derived from American Dental Association: www.ada.org