Starting Early
Oral care should begin even before your child's first tooth appears. Wipe your baby's gums with a clean damp cloth after feedings. Once the first tooth appears, use a small soft-bristled brush with a rice-grain amount of fluoride toothpaste.
First Dental Visit
Schedule your child's first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Early visits help identify problems early and get your child comfortable with the dental environment.
Preventing Cavities
Limit sugary snacks and drinks especially between meals. Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle of milk or juice. Encourage water drinking and healthy snacks like cheese, vegetables, and fruits.
Making Brushing Fun
Use colourful toothbrushes featuring their favourite characters. Play a two-minute song while they brush. Let children choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste flavour. Lead by example by brushing together as a family.
Sealants and Fluoride
Dental sealants are protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent cavities. Fluoride treatments strengthen enamel. Ask your paediatric dentist about these preventive options for your child.