When your child sprouts their first tooth, you might worry about everything from decay to orthodontic care. Without a solid understanding of what you should be doing to take care your child’s smile, it is easy for issues to sneak in — jeopardizing your child’s oral health. Below is a guide on dental health for kids, in addition to what to do and when to talk with your family dentist.

Understanding Children’s Dental Health

Healthy Teeth for a Healthy Body

The same oral bacteria that causes problems such as dental cavities can also irritate your child’s gum tissue and seep into their bloodstream, potentially leading to system-wide inflammation. Additionally, crooked, gapped, or damaged teeth could make it hard for your child to speak, eat, and smile confidently, which is why working with your family dentist to address issues early is important. In addition to allowing your child eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, a healthy, comfortable smile can also help your kid to ward off oral infections and other health problems. 

How to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy 

To keep your child’s teeth healthy, bring your child in for their first dental appointment as soon as they get their first tooth. Kids under three years old should brush with a dollop of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice, and parents should carefully oversee brushing and flossing to ensure proper technique. Kids between the ages of three and six should brush morning and night with an application of toothpaste the size of a pea, while children older than six should be able to brush effectively on their own. Kids should visit the dentist at regular intervals, and parents should schedule appointments with their dental care provider if they notice anything unusual about their children’s teeth.

Is your child due for a checkup with a dentist? Nizich Family Dental in Juneau, AK, offers everything from preventive and restorative dentistry to endodontic therapy, dental crowns, and Invisalign®. Whether your child is embarrassed about the way their smile looks or you’re worried about their dental health, the team will do everything in their power to keep your little one healthy, happy, and comfortable. For more information about their services, check out their website or call (907) 789-7001 to schedule an appointment.