Author: Yayra Kpedekpo Page 1 of 2

I have had the privilege of working with children and helping them develop healthy oral hygiene habits. It’s crucial to instill these habits at a young age to ensure a lifetime of strong and healthy teeth. In this post, I will provide you with some valuable tips and advice on how to establish good oral hygiene habits in your kids. Let’s get started!

1. Start Early, Start Right:

Oral care should begin even before your child’s first tooth appears. Wipe their gums gently with a clean, damp cloth after each feeding to remove any residual milk or formula. As teeth begin to erupt, switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for infants. For more information on how to get started taking care of your child’s oral health, see my previous post on Start Right: Oral Health Tips For Parents

2. Lead by Example:

Children often learn by observing their parents or older siblings. Make oral care a family affair by brushing and flossing together. Seeing you take care of your teeth will motivate and encourage your child to do the same.

3. Make It Fun:

Oral hygiene doesn’t have to be a chore. Get creative and make it an enjoyable experience for your child. Sing along to two minutes of their favorite tune, use colorful toothbrushes and toothpaste, or let them choose their own toothbrush with their favorite cartoon character. By making it fun, you’ll create positive associations with dental care.

4. Teach Proper Technique:

Show your child the correct way to brush their teeth. Use a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste and demonstrate gentle, circular motions along the gumline and the surface of the teeth. Encourage them to brush for at least two minutes, twice a day. Remember to emphasize the importance of brushing the tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

5. Introduce Flossing Early:

Flossing is an essential part of oral hygiene that often gets overlooked. Once your child’s teeth start touching, usually around the age of two, introduce flossing. Use child-friendly floss to reach in between their teeth. As they grow older, teach them how to use traditional dental floss.

6. Encourage Healthy Eating Habits:

A nutritious diet plays a significant role in maintaining good oral health. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, as they can lead to tooth decay. Instead, encourage your child to snack on fruits, vegetables, and cheese, which are tooth-friendly choices. Drinking water and diluted beverages instead of concentrated sugary beverages will reduce the risk of cavities and also help wash away food particles.

7. Regular Dental Check-ups:

Schedule your child’s first dental visit around their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth eruption. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for early detection of any potential issues and to ensure proper development of their teeth and jaws. Make these visits positive experiences, and your child will feel comfortable and relaxed during future visits.

8. Emphasize the Importance of Consistency:

Consistency is key when it comes to establishing good oral hygiene habits. Encourage your child to brush and floss every day, even when they don’t feel like it. Help them understand that taking care of their teeth is a lifelong commitment that will benefit them in the long run.

By following these tips and advice, you can lay the foundation for good oral hygiene habits in your children. Remember, dental care is not only about having a bright smile but also about maintaining overall health and well-being. Start early, make it fun, and lead by example. Together, we can ensure your child’s dental health for a lifetime.

Common Dental Myths Debunked: Addressing Misconceptions About Oral Health and Dental Care

By Yayra Kpedekpo

On June 4, 2023

In Dentalhygiene, Dentistry, Oralhealth

Oral health plays a vital role in our overall well-being, yet there are several misconceptions and myths surrounding dental care. As a general dentist, I believe it’s crucial to address these misunderstandings and provide accurate information to promote better oral hygiene practices. In this blog post, we will debunk some common dental myths and shed light on the truth behind them.

Myth 1: “I don’t have any symptoms, so I don’t need to visit the dentist.”

One of the most prevalent dental myths is the belief that regular dental check-ups are unnecessary unless you’re experiencing pain or noticeable problems. The truth is, many dental issues, such as cavities and gum disease, may not exhibit symptoms in their early stages. By the time you notice pain or discomfort, the problem may have already progressed, leading to more extensive and costly treatments. Regular dental visits every six months allow your dentist to detect and treat any issues early, preventing further damage and ensuring optimal oral health.

Myth 2: “Brushing harder and more frequently will yield better results.”

Contrary to popular belief, aggressive brushing and excessive frequency can do more harm than good. Brushing too hard can wear down enamel, lead to tooth sensitivity, irritate and erode your gums. Instead, use a soft-bristle toothbrush with gentle, circular motions to clean your teeth effectively. Aim for brushing at least twice a day, but not immediately, wait at least 30 minutes after consuming acidic foods or beverages, as it can weaken the enamel. Remember, it’s the technique and consistency that matter, not brute force.

Myth 3: “I don’t need to floss if I brush regularly.”

Brushing alone cannot reach all the areas between your teeth and along the gumline, which is why flossing is crucial. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from these hard-to-reach areas, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Incorporate flossing into your daily oral care routine, making sure to gently glide the floss between your teeth and curve it around each tooth. If traditional flossing is challenging, alternatives like interdental brushes or water flossers can be just as effective.

Myth 4: “Sugar is the sole cause of cavities.”

While it’s true that sugar can contribute to tooth decay, it is not the sole culprit. Cavities are caused by a combination of factors, including poor oral hygiene, frequent snacking, acidic foods and drinks, and bacteria in the mouth. Limiting your sugar intake and practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, are crucial for cavity prevention. Also, be mindful of hidden sugars in processed foods and drinks, as they can also contribute to dental issues.

Myth 5: “Whitening toothpaste can give me a Hollywood smile overnight.”

Whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains and brighten your smile to some extent, but it cannot drastically change the colour of your teeth overnight. Professional teeth whitening procedures, performed under the supervision of a dentist, are more effective in achieving noticeable and long-lasting results. If you’re considering teeth whitening, consult your dentist to determine the most suitable and safe option for your specific needs.

Remember, regular dental check-ups, proper brushing and flossing techniques, and a well-balanced diet are the keys to maintaining a healthy smile. If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist. Together, we can ensure a lifetime of optimal oral health and a bright, confident smile!

Know your Dentist – Specialities to Consider when Choosing a Dentist

By Yayra Kpedekpo

On May 1, 2023

In Dentalhygiene, Dentistry, Oralhealth

Dentistry is a field with various specialties that most people are not aware of. A general dentist is an oral health provider who has successfully completed dental school; whereas a dental specialist has received further specialised training in a preferred specialty after dental school. Dentistry has a variety of specialties that offer a range of services to improve the quality of dental care. Now let’s examine the different specialties.

General Dentists and Family Dentists
Usually, the first point of call for general dental care includes dental examinations, radiographs (X-rays), diagnosis, treatment and management of overall oral health. They make referral of complex dental cases to appropriate specialists for further management.

Paediatric Dentist or Pedodontics
For all dental treatments related to children from as early as 6 months to adolescent years and includes care of children with special needs.

Orthodontist
For the majority who do not like the arrangement of their teeth or that of their kids, an Orthodontist is the dental professional to see for full consultation, assessment, treatment and management. They focus on aligning bites and straightening teeth, and use different dental devices such as braces, retainers, and clear aligners to correct dental abnormalities of patients.

Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry
This speciality deals with tooth fillings, replacements and restoration of damaged teeth. Under this specialty we have:

Endodontist – if you’ve ever seen a dentist about toothache and a root canal was recommended an endodontist is the dental specialty that you are referred to for management.
Periodontist – For dental problems relating to your gum such as bleeding gums, mobile teeth etc collectively known as Periodontal diseases are attended to by a periodontist. Some reasons to see a periodontist are advanced gum problems, bone loss, gum recession, and tooth loss.
Prosthodontist – These dentists specialise in treating complex dental and facial problems, like restoring the smiles of patients by using dentures, crowns (caps) or bridges to replace missing or extracted teeth.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
The surgical specialty of dentistry that deals with patients who have tumours, masses, and cysts within the jaws, as well as the head and neck region.

Oral Medicine and Geriatric dentistry
Patients who are medically compromised and require dental care are attended to by oral medicine specialists whilst dental care of the elderly and aged are managed by geriatric dentists.

Dental Ancillaries
These are dental professionals trained to assist the dentist in the treatment and management of dental cases. This includes: Dental Hygienist, Dental therapist, Dental nurses and Dental surgery assistants.

In summary, dentistry is a vast field with many specialities that deal with different needs. Each specialty requires extensive training and expertise to deliver the best possible care to patients. Specialising in a specific area helps dentists grow and offer comprehensive services to their patients. It is imperative for dental patients to note that, their first point of call is a general dentist who would make the necessary referal to a specialist.

Innovative technologies and treatments in dentistry that can improve oral health.

By Yayra Kpedekpo

On March 19, 2023

In Dentalhygiene, Dentistry, Oralhealth

The field of Dentistry has come a long way. One of the most common fears is visiting a dentist. From the horror stories of dentists pulling out teeth with pliers, chisels, hammers and the terrifying sounds of the dental drill, stems from enduring lengthy procedures in the dental chair and the nightmares after seeing all those terrifying instruments.

Very few people like visiting a dental clinic although regular check ups are crucial to their oral health and overall well being. Over the years, the field of dentistry has evolved from simply extracting a tooth, to saving the tooth and currently encouraging preventive dentistry. Innovative technologies have played a significant role in transforming dentistry and improving oral health outcomes for patients. Some of these technologies are discussed below:

Toothbrushes

In a generation where smart technology has taken over phones, homes etc, dentistry has not been left out. These smart toothbrushes perform a wide array of functions, such as detecting plaque deposits, providing feedback on brushing technique and also evaluate the quality of your breath and saliva. These provide added benefits over traditional tooth brushes.

Early diagnosis of caries

Early detection of cavities avoids spending more money at the dentist than having a larger cavity that has to be filled. Currently, dentists are using diagnostic devices such as DIAGNOdent, a pen-like probe that uses laser beam technology to detect cavities hiding in places regular radiographs can not find. It is an examination tool that allows for early detection of caries.

*An image of Diagnodent device used in caries detection*

Dental imaging

Digital radiographs (X-Rays) are one of the most useful technological advancements in dental radiology. They are faster, contain less radiation and the dentist receives the image in a matter of seconds on a monitor. The dentist can then zoom into the image to better assess and educate the patient regarding their oral health. Same theory applies to intraoral cameras and scanners that provide precise and well-defined pictures of a patient’s mouth. These pictures allow dentists to show these images to patients during an assessment and educate the patient.

An image depicting an intraoral scan of a patient to better appreciate the end result of a dental treatment.

Dental implants

The most common options available for tooth replacement used to be dentures and bridges. However, these replacement options are gradually fading out as modern dentistry is leaning towards dental implants. Dental implants are medical screw-replacements for the root portion of the tooth, surgically implanted into the jaw to restore a patients’ function such as appearance and ability to chew. They provide support to artificial teeth like implant supported crowns, bridges and dentures. Owing to their natural look and feel, they are an effective option for tooth replacement.

*An example of an implant supported crown*

Clear Aligners

The traditional metallic braces were replaced by ceramic ones, these involved spending long hours in the dental chair for reviews and looking like the jewelry shop exploded in your mouth. The introduction of clear aligners such as Invisalign, a clear and invisible braces to gently straighten teeth is an innovation the dental field needed. They provide an effective and comfortable way to straighten smiles without the inconvenience of wearing heavy, metal braces on the teeth. Invisalign braces get the job done in less time with less hassle.

Laser Dentistry

Lasers have simplified a number of dental procedures including lesion removal, reshaping of the gum, teeth whitening, removal of bacteria in filling a cavity and root canal treatment, avoiding any complications. Laser dentistry is painless and fast and has improved efficiency and eliminated discomfort of lengthy dental treatments.

In summary, these new technological advancements and tools help dentists improve the oral hygiene and oral health issues of their patients, by allowing a thorough checkup of the mouth and providing better assessment of patient’s oral care and needs.

Routine Dental Check Up: Schedule Yours Now!

By Yayra Kpedekpo

On January 28, 2023

In Dentalhygiene, Dentistry, Oralhealth

Attending routine dental check-ups ensures the prevention of oral health conditions, such as bleeding gums, tooth stains, tooth decay and decreases the potential for serious oral health problems that are difficult to detect by practicing at-home examinations. Routine dental checks are cost effective and you can avoid paying for expensive major dental work such as extractions, crowns, bridges and emergency services. Just like having a regular tooth brushing routine, you should consider scheduling an appointment with your dentist because its benefits exceed any inconveniences of an emergency appointment.

In this post I will detail the importance of routine dental check ups because the best practice for oral health concerns is prevention. A periodic routine dental check up helps to:

Prevent Periodontal disease

Plaque, calculus and tartar build up can result in periodontal disease when left untreated over a period of time. Gum disease can be prevented by regularly brushing your teeth however a dental check up is equally important to reduce and prevent plaque formation.

Prevents tooth decay

With the just ended festive season which had a lot of us snacking on sweets and savory food. A dental check up should be high on the list for the new year, to allow the dentist to pick up on early signs of tooth decay which is as a result of bacteria and sugar from producing an acidic reaction.

Prevents bad breath

Why wait for a colleague, friend or partner to complain about your halitosis before you seek treatment. At a dental checkup your dentist looks for signs such as bleeding gums, swollen gingiva and calculus which causes bad breath.

Keep teeth looking great

Looking to maintain your white teeth? A dental check up also has cosmetic benefits. Your dentist can recommend cosmetic treatments and educate you on how to improve your smile.

Early detection of oral conditions and lesions

After having a thorough dental exam by a dentist, a new dental radiograph is recommended once every year for clients over the age of 18 years. To detect bone loss in the jaw, impacted teeth and any other unseen pathologies.

Professional oral health tips

Finally, after your dental routine, the dentist will educate you on ways to improve your oral care routine at home to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile between visits. And also all your questions about oral health can be answered.

Schedule a routine dental check-up today

If you have not had a dental check up in 2023 yet, our dental clinic is offering a full month discount on selected oral hygiene procedures for the month of February. Take advantage of this opportunity and visit our clinic today for a complete dental consultation at La Road Dental Clinic.

Twelve Dental Tips For Christmas

By Yayra Kpedekpo

On December 22, 2022

In Dentalhygiene, Dentistry, Oralhealth

It’s Christmas time and as we celebrate with family and friends, let’s ensure our oral health is not neglected during the most wonderful time of the year. In this blog, I have outlined 12 dental tips for all ages for the twelve days of Christmas.

Maintain your tooth brushing routine

Brush twice, in the morning and evening for a full two minutes.

Brush with the right technique

If you do not know the right way to brush your teeth, your child doesn’t either. Check out my previous blog on: Are you brushing right?

Floss daily at night

Floss in between all the teeth and remember to clean your tongue as well.

Time for a new toothbrush

It is the season for giving, do not forget to give yourself a new toothbrush before the year ends.

Drink lots of water

Remember water helps to cleanse food debris and promotes the functions of saliva for a healthy mouth.

Less candy and sweets

Sugar in the presence of caries causing bacteria leads to cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Do not forget to keep sugar consumption at its minimum.

Have healthy snacks

Incorporate fruits into your festive lunch and dinner parties. Switch sugary desserts for a fruit platter to protect your teeth.

Do not take a lot of carbonated drinks

High consumption of carbonated and acidic soft drinks damage teeth and make them susceptible to caries.

Drink from a straw

The use of a straw to consume fizzy drinks reduces the amount of sugar that comes into contact with the teeth. A helpful tip for both adults and children.

Moderate alcohol intake

High alcohol intake negatively affects oral health particularly the gums and causes staining of the teeth as well.

Practice good oral habits

Avoid using your teeth in harmful ways such as; a bottle opener, cutting tape to wrap gifts or opening ribbons on gifts. Take the time to find an opener and a pair of scissors. Remember the right tools for the right job.

Schedule a dental appointment

End the year with a dental appointment especially for children and schedule a professional cleaning with your dentist to start your year with a beautiful and healthy smile.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!

Keep smiling

Dr Yayra Kpedekpo

Dental Causes Of Mouth Odour

By Yayra Kpedekpo

On December 5, 2022

In Dentalhygiene, Dentistry, Oralhealth

Halitosis (bad breath or mouth odour) is a common oral health problem we all experience; such as the early morning smell we have because we did not brush our teeth the previous night, an unfriendly gesture from a friend or colleague at our breath, the constant need to have a chewing gum to refresh our breath etc. That said, the first step to treating bad breath is finding its cause. This blog will explore the dental causes of bad breath and its treatment.

Plaque, Calculus and Tartar

When we do not brush and floss our teeth daily, food debris deposited around the teeth is converted to plaque by bacteria. The progression of this process leads to calculus or tartar formation and gum disease with the end result being bad breath. Also, build-up on the tongue produces significant bad breath when not cleaned regularly.

Periodontitis (Gum Disease)

Periodontal (gum) disease is caused by the release of toxins from bacteria that irritate the gums, resulting in bleeding gums, pocket formation between teeth, tooth mobility and bad breath.

Caries (Tooth decay), oral infection, tumors and cancers

Tiny holes in your tooth become bigger, collecting food particles and bacteria which are fermented to cause bad breath. Dental infections such as recurrent pericoronitis, long standing tooth decay leading to abscess formation and pus discharge.

Dentures (Dental prostheses)

For denture wearers, poorly cleaned and ill-fitting dentures trap odour-causing bacteria and food particles underneath dentures to produce an unpleasant smell.

Dry Mouth

Saliva cleanses and removes bacteria around the teeth.This accounts for the reason why majority of us have “morning breath;” as the production of saliva is reduced during sleep.

Smoking

This is known to cause dry mouth and also increase the development of gum disease and bad breath.

Other causes of halitosis

Medical conditions

Aside from the oral tissues, some medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, liver and kidney disease, asthma, tonsillitis, sinus infection, and many others. Notably, some prescription medications also contribute to bad breath by causing dry mouth or produce chemicals that do.

Certain Foods and Drink

The most common foods known to cause transient halitosis are onions, garlic, and spices. In addition, alcohol and coffee also promote bacteria that cause bad breath.

Treatment Options

The use of sugar free gums and mouthwashes only covers up the problem temporarily. For most reported cases of halitosis, adopting a proper dental hygiene routine such as brushing twice daily and flossing improves bad breath, however if the problem persists, schedule an appointment with your dentist for a thorough examination. Your dentist is skilled and trained to recognise the various causes of bad breath and he or she will refer to the appropriate medical team for management.

Teeth Whitening: Why You Should See A Dentist

By Yayra Kpedekpo

On September 22, 2022

In Dentalhygiene, Dentistry, Oralhealth, Teeth Whitening

The majority of people feel the need to whiten their teeth, despite having good oral hygiene and healthy teeth because they do not have the Hollywood smile. Over the years, the demand for teeth whitening by the public has increased, and as a result, a lot of home based whitening products introduced on the market have gained popularity. People want to have a beautiful white smile to boost their confidence and self-esteem despite the various side effects.

Tooth discoloration is one of the reasons people seek to whiten their teeth. The various causes of tooth discoloration are divided into intrinsic or extrinsic. The intrinsic causes of tooth discolouration includes genetics, age (wear of enamel over time to expose dentin), medications (tetracycline), high levels of fluoride and developmental disorders. On the other hand, extrinsic causes of tooth discoloration includes, the presence of plaque and calculus (Tartar), caries (tooth decay), lifestyle habits such as smoking and dietary habits (beverages such as coffee and teas).

The natural colour of teeth is Yellowish. Although the appearance of teeth depends on the amount of dentine a person has. The outer layer of teeth which is covered by enamel has a natural hue of white. For children between ages of 0 – 5, the bulk of their tooth structure is enamel, which gives them a much whiter dentition, in comparison to the adult dentition having the bulk of their tooth structure being yellowish dentine.

In an attempt to have a pearly white smile, most people resort to whitening products such as toothpaste, mouthwash, whitening strips and questionable DIY dental procedures on the internet. Many of these whitening products and DIYs are ineffective and cause damage to the enamel leading to tooth sensitivity and further discolouration.

If you are considering teeth whitening, see a Dentist to determine the right cause of your discoloration and a safer method to brighten your smile. Your dentist may suggest any of the following options after a thorough examination:

A professional prophylaxis (Scaling and Polishing)
A professional teeth whitening treatment (vital or non-vital bleaching).
Microabrasion – A conservative method that involves the use of acid and abrasive agents.
Composite veneers – These are a restorative chair side procedure done by a dentist to improve the appearance of teeth.
Veneers (Porcelain, Lumineer and e-max) – Thin shells designed specifically for a patient, but expensive to upgrade your smile and cover up imperfections in color and shape of teeth.
Porcelain crowns are custom made caps that provide strength and protect teeth.

Furthermore, certain simple lifestyle changes like the ones below may also help to reduce yellowing of your teeth:

Reduce or avoid consuming acidic foods and beverages
Rinse your mouth after consuming foods and drinks that cause staining
Quit smoking
Stop brushing with a hard toothbrush, be sure to brush your teeth gently using a soft or medium bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. My previous post details this.

If you are brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes, flossing every day, and visiting your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and regular checkup, a slight yellowing of your teeth do not necessarily indicate that they are unhealthy.

Simple Oral Habits To Future-Proof Your Health

By Yayra Kpedekpo

On August 18, 2022

In Dentalhygiene, Dentistry, Oralhealth

Do you remember your last visit to the dentist? Have you ever been to the dentist? Or do you only visit the dentist when you have a complaint such as toothache, halitosis, etc?

If any of the above questions is relatable, now is the time to put a dental visit on top of your healthcare needs.

The oral cavity (mouth) serves as a link to the various body systems (cardiovascular, digestive, reproductive and respiratory) that contribute to general health, yet the importance of our oral health is greatly overlooked and neglected by most of us.

The health of your teeth, gum, tongue and oral mucosa (tissues) play a significant role in the general well-being of an individual. Having good oral hygiene protects not only your teeth and provides you with fresh but other daily functions such as smiling, speaking, chewing and swallowing all benefit. Digestion and absorption of food nutrients begins in the mouth.

The relationship between the mouth and body is of great importance, therefore, having poor oral hygiene increases one’s risk to certain medical conditions. These conditions can also cause significant dental problems.

This post talks about the relation between oral and general health and measures to protect your health (oral and general).

How poor oral health affects general well-being

You may have noticed stains or deposits around your teeth which do not come off even though you brush twice a day without fail. The dental term for this condition is tartar or plaque, and contains bacteria. The presence of plaque or tartar is associated with the occasional bleeding on brushing, mouth odour and toothache. The continuous build-up of plaque and tartar causes severe bacterial infections such as Periodontitis (gum-disease), left untreated, the bacteria could spread to other parts of the body such as the heart causing infective endocarditis and lungs causing pneumonia. Poor oral health in pregnant women has been linked to low birth weights and premature births. In men, poor oral health can cause Erectile dysfunction. The risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia has been linked to poor oral hygiene.

What is your oral health telling you about your general health

The oral cavity (mouth) gives early indications to what is happening systemically in our body. Conditions such as bleeding gums, recurrent infections, oral sores, tooth mobility and progressing gum disease could indicate an undiagnosed medical condition such as diabetes. Regularly visiting your dentist means these early signs occurring in the mouth can be picked up on examinations and referral to the appropriate medical team for further investigations and management. Screening for early signs of oral cancers are performed by your dentist during your dental appointments.

How to take care of your oral health

Maintaining good oral health is easy and important for a person’s general health. By practicing simple dental routines one can future-proof their general health. My previous blog post: Are you brushing your teeth right? details the steps that need to be adhered to in keeping a good oral hygiene. In addition to this, the steps below must be taken for optimum oral and general health.

Have fruits, vegetables and nuts for snacks instead of sugary ones.
Rinse your mouth thoroughly after eating
Avoid acidic drinks such as coke which wears down tooth enamel.
Avoid smoking and tobacco use.
Have regular and routine medical checks annually

It is important to check in with your dentist and not self-medicate when you notice any change in your oral habits such as bleeding during brushing or flossing, tooth sensitivity, oral (mouth) sores, any discharges (pus) and pain. With these simple steps, you can maintain a healthy oral environment for a healthy long life.

Start Right: Oral Health Tips For Parents

By Yayra Kpedekpo

On July 12, 2022

In Dentalhygiene, Dentistry, Paediatric Dentistry

As parents or guardians (especially new moms), a child’s oral health care is your responsibility and duty. Providing oral care for children can be a daunting task and not an easy feat at all, yet if incorporated early into their daily routine, it becomes more of a habit than a chore. Although primary (baby) teeth will exfoliate (fall out), it is important to keep them clean and healthy to maintain good oral hygiene.

In this post we take a look at good oral health practices for children and the right time to start.

When should my child start seeing a dentist?

Your child’s first dental visit should occur at or within 6 months of eruption of their first tooth but should not be 12 months of age postnatal.

However, prenatal oral health counseling with a dentist for expecting mothers is ideal.

How do I clean my child’s tooth or teeth?

For ages between 0-1-year-olds their mouth (0-6months) and tooth or teeth (6-12months) should be cleaned with a moistened gauze or washcloth wrapped around the index finger of the parent, and used gently to massage the gums and teeth.

For ages between 1-5-year-olds: brushing should be done with a soft-bristled toothbrush and smear of toothpaste to reduce the amount of fluoride ingested.

Don’t forget to floss your children’s teeth as well.

Are there any good oral hygiene practices for babies or children?

To maintain a good oral environment and avoid proliferation of caries (tooth decay) causing bacteria:

Avoid prolonged bottle or breast feeding in babies
No high sugary diets in both babies and children.
Have supervised tooth brushing routines that involve brushing for them, and also along with them.
Just like tooth brushing, cleaning of an infants’ mouth should also be carried out twice a day (2X).

Can I attend my dental appointment with my child?

Yes, you can and should attend your dental appointment as a parent with your child, to help familiarize them and slowly transition them for their own dental visits as well.

How often should my child see the dentist?

A 6 monthly dental visit is essential for children, to allow dentists to carry out preventive procedures and treatment on your child. This allows for early detection of any problems and most importantly provides you with the necessary information on oral health needs tailored to your child.

Final Words

I have had parents who say ‘My child does not allow me to brush or clean their teeth.’

I would like to state that if started at the right time from infancy, good oral habits in children continue through their toddler years to when they are old enough to practice on their own.

But before children are old enough to care for their own oral health, their parents need to start them off right and this can be achieved if parents have and are provided with the needed information on how to optimize oral health care in their children.