The importance of oral health care in children is paramount. Good habits should be established from the very first milk tooth.
There are three routines that need to become part of a habit. These include brushing the teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, a healthy diet low in sugars and regular visits to the dentist.
Children need to begin understanding about oral healthcare as early as possible.
Once the milk teeth appear, brushing teeth twice a day will help them get used to a toothbrush in their mouth. This will also start the process of getting them into a good routine.
It’s also advisable to take them to the dentist as soon as possible. A good idea is to bring them with you to your dental appointment.
This will help them get used to the sounds and smells of the environment and make them feel more comfortable when it comes to their first appointment.
All of this enhances their positive feeling about visiting the dentist and oral hygiene in general.
A campaign has been launched called ‘Dental Check by One’. The aims is to increase the number of children who access dental care aged 0-2 years.
Most parents don’t believe it’s worth visiting the dentist at a very young age as they think the child needs to have several teeth – perhaps well into their toddler years. If you bring your child in at a very early age – dental healthcare outcomes for the child are improved.
It’s also important to remember that NHS Dental checkups and treatment is free so there really is no excuse.
We have a number of educational videos showing practical advice and describing various procedures such as flossing and toothbrush use. Visit the Children & Families category in our library.
