Practicing oral hygiene from a young age will prevent the development and progression of various dental diseases. Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping the mouth clean by regularly brushing and flossing. These healthy practices help prevent tooth decay and gum diseases. The condition with oral health is that you have to maintain a consistent routine to prevent diseases and protect your teeth as you age.
Importance Of Oral Hygiene From A Young Age
Dental caries is the most commonly reported chronic disease in infants and young children. It is a disease that damages the teeth’ structure, and this damage results in tooth decay or cavities. Early oral hygiene prevents the chances of dental caries and is the first line of defense against common dental problems such as plaque, tooth decay, gum disease, and halitosis.
The common dental problems in kids include:
Plaque: The white-ish substance clings on to the teeth when food mixes with bacteria and saliva. A good oral health routine consisting of brushing, flossing, and mouthwash will help loosen and rid the plaque.
Tooth decay: Tooth decay occurs when there are small holes or cavities formed in the tooth. The main cause of tooth decay is the collection of bacteria when consuming sugary food. Kids tend to eat a lot of sugary treats, which can take a negative toll on their oral health. Make sure your kids limit sugar consumption and follow up with brushing and flossing as this can help remove the bacteria formed.
Gum disease: Gum diseases usually involve infection or inflammation of the gums surrounding the teeth. This inflammation is known as gingivitis and can cause the gums to swell. Clearing the plaque from the teeth will help you relieve the symptoms of gingivitis. The dental hygienist will thoroughly cleanse the mouth to eradicate the inflammation caused by gingivitis.
Halitosis: Halitosis is a condition concerning bad breath. It is caused due to the unhealthy build-up of plaque. The plaque leads to inflammation and infection of gums. Regular brushing and cleansing of the mouth area will help resolve the condition.
Healthy Habits For Kids
Parents can mildly wipe and brush the gum area for their infants. Once the child has turned two years old, he/she should start brushing and flossing with parental assistance.
The manners for proper oral hygiene include:
Brushing: Ensure your child brushes his/her teeth for two whole minutes. Their toothpaste should contain fluoride, and you can get different flavors to keep the habit going. Make sure to replace the brush at least once every three months.
Flossing: Kids can have a hard time flossing as they may not have achieved complete motor development. Flossing helps remove plaque, clears food between teeth, and stimulates the gums.
Mouthwash: Antiseptic mouthwash will get rid of the small debris stuck in the mouth. The practice will wash away the germs and keep the gums healthy. While choosing a mouthwash for your kid, make sure to pick one with low levels of alcohol.
Dental visits: A visit to the dental clinic will help resolve any dental problem before the condition worsens. Regular checkups will ensure that your child’s teeth grow healthy.
Parents can have a hard time to ensure their children establish healthy oral habits. You can engage your child’s curiosity by educating them about healthy practices through fun games and activities. Contact us to consult the best pediatric dentists in the region.
