Toddlers and Tooth Decay Tips and Advice
As parents, we have an instinctive concern for our children, and if anyone is at risk of tooth decay, a toddler would be at the top of the list. One must be very careful about the amount of sugar a young child consumes, as a sugary diet is the main cause of tooth decay, and with that in mind, here are a few things you can do to prevent the onset of tooth decay.
- Regular Dental Examinations – This is important for everyone, especially toddlers, and should your dentist notice crooked teeth coming through, a corrective device like Invisalign will help the teeth to straighten. The first few years of a child’s life are critical regarding teeth, and if decay is noticed, the dentist would likely recommend a filling, while also asking about the child’s diet and offering advice on how to introduce a diet that contains little sugar.
- Teach your Child Correct Brushing & Flossing Techniques – The sooner you do this, the better, and when your child’s first milk teeth appear, one should begin with brushing alongside mum or dad. This is something that the best dentist in Brisbane would wholeheartedly recommend. By taking your toddler when you visit the dentist, you are familiarising them with the environment. There are YouTube videos on every topic, including how to teach a toddler the correct way to brush and floss their teeth, and this will help you to get the best results. Of course, being there when your child brushes will ensure that they are doing it the right way, and when it becomes a habit, you no longer need to monitor.
- Avoid Soft Drinks – All soft drinks that are carbonated contain too much sugar, and while your child might not agree, offer them a natural fruit juice as an alternative. Carbonated drinks contain many e-numbers, which can make your child overactive, not to mention the damage it can cause to their teeth. If a child develops a taste for sweet drinks, it can be challenging, so start as you mean to continue by closely monitoring the drinks they consume. In fact, if you were to abstain from sugary drinks, your kids are more likely to follow your lead. Sugar seems to find its way into many foods and drinks, so it is a good idea to read the labels prior to buying food and drinks for your child.
- Choose a Child-Friendly Dentist – If you don’t want your child to develop a fear of the dentist, find a child-friendly practice, as they understand the problem and make sure that fun is an integral part of the visit. The child-friendly dentist can instantly develop a rapport with the child, and in most cases, the dentist would advise you to wait outside while he or she carries out the examination.
If you want your children to develop strong and healthy teeth and gums, follow the above advice and take your child’s oral hygiene very seriously, and this should set them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
Image Source: Pixabay
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Kori
Digital Product Creator at Kori at Home
Hey there! I'm Kori, a neurodivergent mom and certified Life Coach, here to empower moms raising neurodiverse families. Diagnosed with ADHD and Autism at 37, I've turned my passion for neuronerdery into practical parenting tools. With a stack of coaching certifications and a love for 80s pop culture, Marvel movies, and all things brainy, I'm here to help you and your family thrive in this neurotypical world.
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