How to Care for Your Child's Teeth at Every Age

According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 46% of children ages two to 19 have untreated cavities. Teaching your child how to improve their oral hygiene at a young age is essential. Otherwise, they'll develop cavities, which can affect their overall health and quality of life.

Use these tips to care for your child's teeth at every age. With this pediatric oral health guide, you can set them up for success with a stunning smile. Prepare your child for the future with these age-specific dental care tips!

Age-Specific Dental Care

Understanding your child's dental development will ensure you meet their needs at every stage. They may experience different dental challenges as they grow. Here are a few milestones to expect while navigating dental hygiene for children. 

 

0 to 1 Years Old

You'll need to prioritize teeth cleaning for kids before your baby's first tooth erupts. After feedings, clean your baby's gums using your finger or a soft, moist cloth. This will remove excess milk before it lingers in your child's mouth.

Teething

Most babies begin teething between six and 12 months of age. Typical symptoms include:

• Getting a face rash
• Acting cranky
• Drooling more than usual
• Chewing on objects
• Having sore or tender gums

Try soothing your baby's gums using a clean finger or wet gauze. Rub their gums for two minutes to ease their discomfort.

You can use chilled items like pacifiers, teething rings, or wet cloths to soothe their gums. Don't dip these items in sugary substances, which could increase their risk of cavities.

Visiting the Dentist

You can upgrade to using a soft-bristled toothbrush after their first tooth erupts. According to Stanford Medicine, you should take your child in for their first dental appointment within six months of their first tooth erupting. Otherwise, take them in before their first birthday.

During this first appointment, the dentist will complete a full exam of their:

• Oral tissues
• Gums
• Bite
• Jaws
• Teeth

The dentist will assess their growth and development. Depending on your child's age, they may recommend a gentle teeth cleaning. The cleaning will remove plaque, tartar, or stains from your child's teeth.

Prepare a list of questions you want to ask your child's pediatric dentist before this appointment. Your questions can cover:

• Brushing 
• Flossing
• Fluoride
• Dental X-rays

The dentist can explain proper teeth-cleaning techniques and provide child dental care tips. Schedule an appointment at the pediatric dentist's office every three months. 

Regular appointments will help your child grow comfortable and confident at the dentist's office. Otherwise, they may develop dental anxiety.

The prevalence of dental anxiety among children ages six to 12 is 22.68%. Developing dental anxiety as a child may deter them from going to the dentist as an adult. Helping them grow comfortable at the dentist's office from a young age can set them up for long-term success.

1 to 3 Years Old

Your child will likely have all their baby teeth once they reach age three. Teach them about the importance of dental hygiene for children and help them brush their teeth each night and morning.

Neglecting to brush our teeth gives food particles, saliva, and bacteria the chance to mix together. Plaque, a sticky film, will cling onto and between our teeth. Plaque can release acid, causing tooth decay and painful symptoms.

Make brushing your teeth a family affair. Your child will mimic your behavior as they learn to brush their teeth on their own.

3 to 6 Years Old

Your child should learn how to properly brush their teeth at this stage. Teach them the importance of visiting the dentist regularly for professional cleanings.

Professional cleanings remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas. This can reduce their risk of tooth decay and other problems. 

Talk to the dentist if your child is over the age of three and still sucking on their thumb or pacifier. Your dentist can provide tips to wean them off.

Your child may start losing their baby teeth from the age of six. The first tooth to fall out is usually around the front of the lower jaw.

Reassure your child that it's normal for their baby teeth to fall out as their adult teeth grow in. Their gums may feel tender or bleed a little. You can use ice packs or over-the-counter anti-inflammatories to relieve their pain.

6 to 13 Years Old

As your child's teeth continue erupting, consider scheduling an appointment with an orthodontist. The orthodontist will determine if your child's adult teeth are growing correctly. They can make recommendations to help your child avoid bite or misalignment issues.

Reduce your child's risk of developing cavities by adjusting their diet. Great summertime snack foods include:

• Dairy products
• Lean proteins
• Fruits and vegetables

Reduce their intake of carbs and sugar. Plaque feeds on these foods, which can lead to cavities.

13 to 18 Years Old

Children usually get their full set of teeth around ages 14 to 16. Take them to the dentist for routine appointments and continue to stress the importance of good oral hygiene.

Cavities are more common in our teen years than at any other time in our lives. Increased freedom can lead to poor diet choices and neglect of oral hygiene.

Talk to your dentist about preventive dentistry services, including fluoride and sealants. These treatments can help reduce your teen's risk of developing cavities.

Child Dental Care Tips

Help your child maintain good oral health by:

• Having them brush their teeth twice a day
• Getting them to floss their teeth daily
• Limiting their intake of sugar and acidic drinks/foods
• Keeping them from opening packages with their teeth
• Having them wear a mouthguard while playing sports
• Feeding them crunchy fruits and vegetables
• Taking them to the dentist regularly

Your child's dentist can provide more child dental care tips based on your child's developmental needs.

Get Help Caring for Your Child's Teeth

Your child's teeth will have different needs as they grow older. Use this pediatric oral health guide to help them develop healthy habits. Remember to visit the dentist every six months to confirm their development is on the right track.

At Ronald A. Murphy DMD, we emphasize personalized dentistry. We provide a wide range of services designed to meet each patient's needs.

Trust our qualified and caring staff, state-of-the-art dental services, and comfortable atmosphere. Contact us now to schedule an appointment.