Babies grow quickly and will begin teething before you know it. This is a major milestone in your child’s development, and it’s important to get them started with proper oral care early to set them up for excellent oral health for life. Here’s a quick overview to help you understand when you should begin teaching your child to brush and floss as well as when to schedule their first dental appointment.
When Should I Teach My Child to Brush?
Even before your child’s teeth start to emerge, it’s a great idea to begin getting them used to the sensation of brushing. You can do this by gently wiping their gums daily with a soft washcloth or a clean finger to stimulate the soft tissues and remove bacterial accumulations. This can help prevent complications when your child’s teeth begin to erupt.
As soon as your child has at least one tooth poking out from the gumline, it’s best to begin brushing it for two minutes at least twice a day. It’s most important to clean their teeth after their last meal before bed, as this will prevent food residue from lingering in their mouth overnight.
When Should I Get My Kid Started with Flossing?
Flossing is every bit as important to preserving your oral health as brushing, so it’s important to get your child used to this habit as soon as possible. Begin flossing your child’s smile daily as soon as they have two teeth next to one another. This will prevent bacterial accumulations that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
When Should My Child Have Their First Dentist’s Appointment?
Alongside excellent oral hygiene and smart eating habits, regular dental appointments are absolutely essential to enjoying great oral health for a lifetime. It’s best to schedule your child’s first dentist’s appointment after their first birthday or when their first tooth begins to emerge, whichever comes first. This will help your child acclimate to dental checkups and allow your pediatric dentist to carefully monitor their oral development and address any problems early.
Getting your child started with excellent oral hygiene early is one of the greatest gifts you can give them for their oral health. Consulting with your pediatric dentist can help you find the best ways to help them develop proper dental care habits.
About the Practice
Capezio Pediatric Dentistry offers outstanding oral health services to the community of Buffalo Grove. Led by Drs. Nicholas Capezio and Ted Loiben, the staff ensures that each patient receives excellent dental care in a comfortable and kid-friendly environment. Areas of expertise include pediatric dentistry, tooth extractions, orthodontic referrals, and dental emergencies. To schedule your child’s first dental appointment, contact the office online or dial (847) 459-9100.