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Children’s general health depends on having healthy teeth. They assist children in eating and communicating. Strong oral hygiene helps kids develop healthy dental habits as they get older. Infection, illness, or other dental issues may result from poor oral hygiene. Childhood cavities (tooth decay) are rather typical. However, cavities can be avoided by brushing, flossing, consuming fewer sweets, and visiting the dentist regularly. Tooth decay is the most common dental issue among pre-schoolers, as any parent might expect.
Research studies have revealed that one or more cavities are present in one in ten two-year-olds; almost 28% of children have one or more cavities by the age of three; and nearly 50% of kids have one or more cavities before the age of five. Many parents believe that since milk teeth (also known as deciduous teeth) will eventually fall out, cavities don't matter. But that is not accurate. Milk tooth decay can significantly damage permanent teeth and cause dental issues in the future.
Therefore, the kids must understand the importance of good oral hygiene. Children should be taught good oral hygiene practices since doing so will ensure that they maintain their oral health throughout their lives and help them establish good dental hygiene standards for themselves. Get in touch with the best dentists to know more about dental treatment in Kolkata.
Here are a few good oral hygiene guidelines for kids that they should follow:
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Regular brushing of the teeth at least twice daily.
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Brush for two minutes, each time covering all the areas of their mouth.
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Teaching kids the proper way to brush their teeth.
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Assist children in brushing their teeth to guide them properly.
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Encourage children to choose healthy snacks such as fruits and vegetables and limit their consumption of sugary snacks and drinks.
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Limiting the frequency of sugar intake in a day, as sugar can contribute to tooth decay,
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Children should undergo regular dental check-ups, ideally every six months. This helps to monitor their oral health and identify any potential issues.
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Parents should be role models for their children by practising good oral hygiene.
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The width of the brush only has to be lightly coated or pea-sized toothpaste.
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Children should be encouraged to look into the mirror while brushing and flossing.
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It is recommended to brush your teeth for two minutes, spending three seconds on each of the three surfaces.
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Flossing once daily is recommended when the teeth are closely spaced apart.
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Spitting is recommended instead of rinsing with water after brushing.
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When using a manual toothbrush, the front surfaces of the teeth should be scrubbed in circular motions.
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Patients aged 6 and above, who have braces or a history of dental decay, are advised to use mouthwash under the guidance of their dentist.
Mouth Safety
Another important aspect of oral hygiene is mouth safety. Kids are recommended to wear a mouth guard if they participate in sports. A mouth guard is a soft plastic retainer that covers the lips and occasionally the teeth. It helps prevent any injury to a child's mouth. If any children require a mouth guard that is specially fitted, they should consult their dentist.
Other Things to Consider for Good Oral Hygiene in Kids
Babies commonly suck on their thumbs, fingers, or pacifiers, but by age 4, most kids naturally break this practice. Tooth alignment issues might result from prolonged use. If any child has a propensity for sucking after the age of four, it is recommended that they consult the dentist. Dentists can keep an eye out for issues as the child’s teeth grow. Until the permanent front teeth erupt around age 6, most kids do not need to be concerned about a habit of sucking their thumbs, fingers, or pacifiers. If any such habits are present, it is advisable to continue monitoring them until the permanent teeth have fully grown. Dentists can examine children for any habits and, if necessary, provide habit breakers. There are various habit breakers available specifically designed for children. The best dentist in Kolkata will assess if the child exhibits such habits, like thumb sucking, and can provide habit breakers to help address them.
Frequently Asked Questions on Dental Care (FAQs)
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Why are children at higher risk for cavities?
Children are more likely to acquire cavities due to factors such as developing teeth with thinner enamel, consuming sugary meals, poor oral hygiene practices, frequent snacking, and probable oral bacteria exposure from carers.
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Why is brushing important for children?
Children should brush their teeth daily to remove plaque and bacteria that could cause cavities and tooth decay. Additionally, regular brushing encourages good oral hygiene practices and supports general dental health.
Also, talking about the baby's teeth, once it begins to emerge, it is necessary to start brushing them. However, even before that stage, parents should gently clean their baby's gums using a clean, damp cloth. It is important to do this after each feeding or at least twice a day.
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When should children start practising proper oral hygiene?
Children should start undertaking proper oral hygiene practises as soon as their first tooth erupts. It is recommended to begin brushing their teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water, and as more teeth come in, to introduce a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. Establishing early oral hygiene habits sets the foundation for lifelong dental health.
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Is it safe for the kids to take oral fluoride supplements?
A dentist or paediatrician should decide whether to administer oral fluoride supplements depending on each child's particular risk of tooth decay and the amount of fluoride in their drinking water. Oral fluoride supplements can be safe and helpful in preventing cavities when prescribed and used appropriately. It is crucial to abide by the dose recommendations and instructions given by medical specialists.
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Can children use mouthwash?
Mouthwash can be used by children, but it is important to take into consideration their age and degree of maturity. Fluoride-containing mouthwash can help protect children's teeth from decay, but adult supervision is essential to make sure they don't swallow it. To decide whether and when mouthwash is suitable for a child, it is preferable to consult a dentist.
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