As parents, prioritising the health of our little ones is our foremost concern, and this includes the responsibility of nurturing their oral well-being from their earliest stages. A strong and healthy set of teeth is pivotal for a child's holistic growth and wellbeing.
Dr Srinivas Namineni, MDS, Pediatric Dentistry, Consultant Paediatric Dentist, Rainbow Children's Hospital, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, explains five practices that are imperative to maintain cavity-free infant teeth, fostering impeccable oral hygiene right from the outset.
Starting Early: First Dental Check
“Initiating your infant's dental well-being journey involves arranging their first dental examination before they reach their first birthday, regardless of whether their teeth have surfaced or not. Early dental appointments aid in tracking the progression of tooth development and spotting potential issues in their infancy,” said Dr Namineni. This proactive approach sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.
Also read: Five Tips To Up Your Dental Care Keeping Cavities Away
Balancing “At Will” Nighttime Feeding
“Although breastfeeding is crucial for a baby's growth and development, it is vital to be conscious of the duration, particularly during nighttime feedings. Prolonged 'at will' breastfeeding after the first birthday can elevate the likelihood of Early Childhood Dental Caries (ECDC) by 50%,” said Dr Namineni.
“ECDC represents a distinct form of dental caries prevalent in young children, underscoring the importance of finding a harmonious balance between breastfeeding and maintaining optimal oral health practices,” she added.
Say No to Sugar Before Two
“Steer clear of introducing sweeteners such as sugar, honey, jaggery, date syrup, or maple syrup to your child in any form before they reach their second birthday. Early exposure to sweeteners heightens the susceptibility to cavities in children. Opt for natural, unsweetened foods and beverages as a safeguard for your child's emerging teeth,” said Dr Namineni.
Toothbrush & Toothpaste for Tiny Teeth
Upon the emergence of the initial tooth, initiate brushing promptly with a toothpaste containing a minimum of 1000 PPM (parts per million) of fluoride. Research indicates that brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste can reduce the risk of cavities by as much as 90%. Confirm that the toothpaste is appropriate for your child's age and includes the recommended fluoride concentration for optimal protection.
Snack Smart: Fruits & Nuts
“Processed foods manufactured in factories frequently contain excessive sugars and harmful additives, which can contribute to the deterioration of teeth. Substitute these unhealthy snacks with natural alternatives such as fruits and nuts. Not only do these options promote oral health, but they also deliver vital nutrients essential for your child's overall well-being,” said Dr Namineni.
Also read: Oral health: Basic Dental Habits To Deal With Plague
Six-Month Smile Check
Make visiting a paediatric dentist every six months a routine, regardless of any visible dental issues. Consistent check-ups enable early intervention and preventive measures, guaranteeing prompt solutions to any potential problems.
By integrating these practices into your child's everyday schedule, you can play a pivotal role in ensuring their dental well-being. Initiating these habits early on and upholding regular oral hygiene routines will establish the foundation for a lifetime of teeth free from cavities and optimal oral health, fostering the overall well-being of your little one.