What Every Parent Should Know About Their Child's Oral Health

As a parent, nothing is more important to you than the health of your child. And if you’re concerned about your child’s oral health, you have good reason. Every year, more than 300,000 kids are diagnosed with early childhood cavities.

Unfortunately, early childhood cavities and other oral health issues can cause your child long-term dental problems. That’s why Robert F. Wilcox, DMD, offers specialized pediatric dental care at his private practice in Butte, Montana. 

Dr. Wilcox and our entire care team want to help you keep your child’s teeth in the pink of health. Keep reading to learn what every parent should know about their child’s oral health.  

Start tooth brushing (very) early

It may seem like it’s too early to think about dental care when your baby has a mouthful of gums. But your baby came into the world with 20 teeth waiting below the surface. Your child’s first teeth erupt when they’re 6-12 months old. 

For the best oral health possible, don’t wait to teach and practice oral care with your child from the very start. One of the easiest things you can do — and the best way to stop cavities from developing — is to brush your child’s teeth regularly. 

Select a child-friendly toothbrush, and brush your young child’s teeth for them until they’re able to help. Supervise their oral care until your child is around 8-9 years old, but keep reminding them to brush and floss each night as they progress through high school.

Keep their teeth protected with fluoride  

Fluoride keeps teeth healthy and strong by helping them retain minerals that support dental enamel. In fact, if your child’s teeth don’t get enough fluoride when they’re an infant and toddler, they have a higher risk of developing dental problems when they’re older. 

For children with signs of cavity-causing bacteria, fluoride strengthens soft or damaged areas of their dental enamel, helping prevent further deterioration. Dr. Wilcox may also recommend fluoride treatment and/or supplements depending on your child’s needs. 

You can add another level of protection by choosing a toothpaste that’s fortified with fluoride. In fact, both the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association recommend using a fluoride toothpaste as soon as your child gets their first tooth.

Don’t wait to teach your child to floss

Did you know that even with regular tooth brushing, only about 50% of the surface area of your child’s teeth gets cleaned? That’s why regular flossing is key. Flossing cleans the parts of your child’s teeth that brushing alone can’t, helping rid their mouth of cavity-causing plaque. 

When your child’s first teeth come in and they have lots of space between each tooth, you might wonder if flossing is worthwhile. The answer is a resounding YES! In fact, this is the best time to teach your child to floss and build a strong flossing habit. 

By starting early, you can teach your child how quick and easy it is to floss. We can show you and your child age-appropriate flossing techniques. 

Promote dental care beyond bedtime

Most parents think teaching their child to brush and floss before bedtime is enough. But promoting dental care beyond bedtime — like after eating lunch or an after-school snack — could mean the difference between staying cavity-free or having a mouth full of fillings. 

Teach your child to rinse, brush, and floss as soon as they can after they eat. And encourage healthy snacks and water instead of sugary beverages and treats. Lead by example and practice dental care at other times of the day yourself. 

Schedule and keep preventive dental visits

The American Dental Association recommends bringing your child to the dentist before their first birthday. Give your child the best oral health possible by scheduling and keeping preventive dental exams twice a year. 

Not only does Dr. Wilcox give your child cavity-preventing treatments, like sealants and topical fluoride, but visiting a dentist from a young age helps acclimate your child to routine dental care. This works to keep dental anxiety at bay and encourages better lifelong oral care.

Learn more about keeping your child’s teeth as healthy as possible by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Wilcox in Butte, Montana.