As a parent, it is essential to start good dental habits early for your child's oral health. The first tooth is a significant milestone, and it's crucial to establish a routine for brushing teeth and maintaining good oral hygiene. Dr. Erin Westfall from Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato, Minnesota, provides valuable tips on how to care for your child's teeth from a young age.
Dental infections are common in children, and it is essential to play an active role in your child's dental care. Tooth decay can affect a child's baby teeth and lead to decay in adult teeth if not addressed early. Untreated dental disease has also been linked to serious health conditions like stroke, heart disease, and diabetes in adulthood.
Starting good oral habits early is key to preventing dental caries or cavities. Introducing fluoride water in your child's formula at 6 months can help strengthen their teeth. Regular dental checkups are also crucial, starting with an oral health exam by age 1 or when the first tooth emerges.
Supervising your child's brushing routine is important, as well as limiting sugary snacks and drinks that can increase the risk of cavities. Choosing water instead of soda or juice between meals and selecting healthy snacks can help maintain good dental health.
Overall, creating healthy dental habits from a young age, including regular dental checkups, brushing teeth twice a day, and eating nutritious foods, can set your child up for a lifetime of good oral health. Dr. Westfall emphasizes the importance of parental supervision and guidance in establishing these habits early on. Remember, a healthy smile starts with good dental care!