In many ways, pediatric dental care is quite similar to preventive and restorative dentistry in general. However, there are a few particularities that set pediatric dentistry apart. In today’s short article, our Novato family dentists are going to be sharing information about dental care for kids. We hope that this helps you make a useful plan to help your children smile confidently.
One of the most important things that we do in the world of pediatric dental care is to help our young patients develop healthy and sound oral health habits. When patients have positive dental experiences early in life, they are more likely to prioritize oral health as adults.
As a parent or caregiver, you want to make sure your children:
- Brush their teeth every morning and every night
- Learn to floss, and practice once a day
- Keep up with their regularly scheduled professional dental cleanings
- Understand how certain foods and drinks, especially sugary ones, affect oral health
As we are equipping our children to take control of their smiles, we want to make sure that we’re giving them the right tools:
- Those children young enough to regularly swallow toothpaste should not use formulations that contain fluoride—there are specific, fluoride-free, toothpastes on the market for these youngsters
- Make sure that your child’s toothbrush is small enough to reach your child’s back teeth, as this is where plaque and bacteria tend to accumulate
- Talk to your dentist about what type of bristle is right for your child. Most patients do well with soft-bristled brushes, and firmer bristles can actually lead to enamel erosion and gum tissue damage.
If you have any questions about the particularities of pediatric dental care, our Novato dentists are here to help you. Give us a call to schedule a personal consultation for your child!