Your child’s smile needs to be cared for, and it’s your job to do it. Oftentimes children can’t properly clean and care for their teeth and gums because they don’t have the dexterity to do it. This is when you come into play. To help you keep your child’s smile in tip-top shape, Dr. Jurgina Elezi and our dental team have some tips for you.
Tip No. 1: Bring your child in to see their dentist by the time they are 1 year old. This appointment gives our dental team the chance to examine your child’s smile and make sure everything is on the right track. It also gives you the chance to ask any questions you have about your child’s smile. Lastly, it also gives your child the chance to get to know our dentist and dental team.
Tip No. 2: Try to avoid swapping spit with your child. Sharing saliva can promote as well as create cavities because of the bacteria jumping from one mouth to the other. This can happen when you share utensils, blow on food to cool it, rinse a pacifier with your mouth rather than water, and even kiss your child on the lips. Now, we’re not saying to stop kissing your child—we just ask that you be careful.
Tip No. 3: Clean your child’s teeth and gums regularly. If they don’t have teeth yet, wipe their gums with a wet washcloth after each feeding. If they do have teeth, clean those teeth with a child-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush and water. Wait to use toothpaste until your child is 3 years old.
Do you have questions about how to help your child’s smile in Quincy, Massachusetts? If so, call Coddington Dental at your earliest convenience and talk to our dental team. We have the answers you’re looking for, and we look forward to helping you!