Most toddlers have their full set of primary teeth by the age of three. Teeth play an important role in speech development and proper chewing. Unfortunately, tooth decay is the most common disease affecting young children in the U.S., which is why it’s crucial for parents to start practicing good dental care at an early age. Here’s an overview of what you need to know to set a healthy foundation for your kids.

The First Dentist Appointment

Cavities can begin forming any time after teeth come in, so the American Dental Association recommends taking your child to the dentist once their first tooth erupts and no later than their first birthday. During this visit, you’ll learn essential dental care techniques to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. The dentist may also perform a full exam to see how your child’s teeth, gums, and jaws are developing.

Common Dental Problems for Toddlers 

Understanding some of the more common dental issues that arise in children will help you know what preventive measures to take. Baby bottle tooth decay often occurs when kids routinely go to sleep at night with juice or milk in their bottle. The sugars will attract bacteria, which will create plaque.

Thumb-sucking may seem harmless, but it can change the structure of teeth and cause alignment problems over time. Teeth grinding is another frequent occurrence with toddlers, and it will wear down their teeth and weaken their enamel.

Tips for Maintaining Their Oral Health 

To keep your toddler’s teeth and gums in good condition, help them brush for two minutes twice a day. They should also floss daily once they have two teeth that touch.

Don’t put them to bed with any sweet drinks, and limit how much sugar they have during the day. Additionally, opt for healthy snacks over sweet, starchy, and sticky foods.

Take your child to see their dentist twice a year. They’ll get the professional dental care they need to avoid or fix issues early on.

If you’re looking for a caring and experienced pediatric dentist for your toddler, turn to Discovery Dental in Eagle River, AK. As a trusted provider for children of all ages in the community since 2013, they’re devoted to delivering high-quality dental care in a clean and welcoming environment. Call (907) 622-5437 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online for more information about their services.