With cavities on the rise amongst children, it’s vital to get an oral care routine in place early. Teaching healthy habits not only reduces dental dilemmas, but produces shining smiles that last for life. As the premier children’s dentist office in Anchorage, Alaska Dentistry for Kids offers an array of services to keep your children smiling. Here, the experts share oral care tips for the smallest members of your family.

Anchorage Children's Dentist Shares 4 Oral Care Tips for Infants & Toddlers

1. Begin a Routine Before Teeth Emerge

Kids’ dental care is different than your own, especially for infants who haven’t yet sprouted a tooth. Being prepared leads youngsters on the proper path, so use a wet washcloth to wipe over your child’s gums twice daily. It’s vital to keep gums healthy too, and this is a routine you can start before that first tooth even sprouts.

2. Visit the Dentist When That First Tooth Sprouts

The first tooth springs up around six months, so schedule that first office visit. Your children’s dentist will recommend the proper cleaning routine and supply the first brush you need to get started. Baby toothbrushes are designed with smaller heads and soft bristles to keep first teeth fresh. When applying toothpaste, use less than a pea-size drop until youngsters learn not to swallow.

3. Make Healthy Habits a Priority

When you make oral care an everyday routine, even toddlers get into the swing of things, realizing the importance of a healthy smile. Regular cleaning prevents cavities and decay, so brush children’s teeth twice daily until they can do so on their own. 

4. Stay Up-to-Date With Kids’ Dental Care

Staying up-to-date with dentist visits will keep teeth healthier for the long haul. Visit the office bi-annually for cleanings and check-ups, and know how to spot negative signs at home. Baby tooth decay is marked by small spots on the teeth, so head in earlier if this is a concern. 

Starting oral health habits before teeth even emerge leads little ones on the path toward a bright, shining smile. Alaska Dentistry for Kids helps maintain youngsters’ teeth and gums no matter what their needs, from infancy until they graduate high school. Visit this premier children’s dentist office online for more information, or call (907) 274-2525 to schedule your child’s first appointment today.