Here are some interesting facts about age appropriate dental care

I'll be honest and admit that dental care is not something that has particularly been on my radar since becoming a mum. I think you get caught up in the whirlwind of simply caring for your baby (and for yourself) day to day that anything “extra” can seem impossible.
 
Dental care is really important though and when someone explained it to me as being a preventative measure to avoid painful procedures for our children it did make me think differently about it. It's now more of a priority.
 
I did a bit of research and found some interesting facts about age appropriate dental care. It may be useful to you guys.
  • It is recommended to start brushing your infants teeth from the moment the first teeth emerge. Using a soft toothbrush and NO toothpaste is the guideline. It serves as an important aid in making dental care and tooth brushing a normal everyday routine thing.
  • When it comes to tooth decay the issue is not necessarily the amount of sugar in foods but rather the frequency that we eat foods that are high in sugar. Having a little amount of sugar regularly could be worse than having a lot on occasion.
  • It is recommended to take your child to the dentist with you when they are about three years old to familiarise them with the environment and the scene.
  • Psychologists do not recommend that you tell your child that they are very brave for visiting the dentist. It implies that bravery was needed and that the dentist is indeed a scary place that carries a threat. Instead we should make it as normal and casual as possible.
  • Children should experience two dental check-ups while at primary school however all children under the age of sixteen are entitled to free dental care in the event of an emergency such as tooth pain or a broken tooth.
  • Children will most likely require your help brushing their teeth until they are seven years old. This is to ensure that they are effectively brushing them.
  • Fluoride has an important role in helping to prevent tooth decay. It is something that occurs naturally in certain foods and in some water supplies. Some toothpastes contain fluoride but it is only recommended after your child's second birthday.
  • Fissure Sealants are often offered to children for their permanent back molars. It serves to even out an otherwise uneven surface which can make it easier for food to get trapped in. Their purpose is to prevent tooth decay. 
Written by Tracey Quinn, staff writer with Family Friendly HQ

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