Cleaning Your Child’s Teeth

Caring for and dental cleaning of your child’s  is very important to keep them healthy and decay-free until they are replaced by the permanent dentition. Many people are not aware of the fact that gums too can and should be cleaned even before the eruption of primary teeth.

Dental Cleaning before teeth eruption:

Prior to primary teeth eruption in the mouth, you can maintain good oral hygiene by wiping your child’s gums with a soft, moist gauze after feeding, and before bedtime. A clean, wet washcloth can also be used for the purpose, but it must be washed on a daily basis after use.

Cleaning Primary teeth:

The first primary teeth erupt into the oral cavity when the child is around 6 months old. Once the primary teeth start erupting, you may use a toothbrush for dental cleaning. Make sure that the toothbrush is small, soft and easy to use. The head should be small and the bristles must be soft so that the brush does not hurt your child’s soft tissues or gums. Pick a mild flavored toothpaste without fluoride for your infant. Consult with Dr Sheppard for recommendations.

Brush at least twice a day, especially before bed, to get your child used to this habit child. Regular cleaning will keep cavities at bay and will help teach the child the importance of good oral hygiene.

You will have to assist your children in teeth brushing until they are capable of holding the brush right, moving it in the correct (up and down) motions against the teeth and spitting out excess toothpaste all by themselves. This requires patience, but in the long run, teaching a child how to clean his/her teeth the correct way is rewarding in terms of healthy smile maintenance and decay prevention.

Dr. Sheppard offers an extensive range of services catering to the oral healthcare needs and requirements of your child. The team at our office strives to make sure every child feels at home and comfortable without feeling scared or nervous. Contact us today for a professional consultation and the finest pediatric dental care in the North Phoenix area.