(HOWARD, SD) – February is Children’s Dental Health Month, a perfect time to help your children learn the basics of keeping their teeth clean and healthy.
Dr. Michelle Scholtz, DDS, Chief Dental Officer at Horizon Health, advocates prioritizing dental health care at any age but especially for young children. Create routines with them today, including regular visits to the dentist, that will last a lifetime.
If you are wondering how early to start your children on the path of good dental health, the answer is TODAY!
Parents can start brushing their children’s teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts. For children under three, use a rice-sized amount of toothpaste, increase to a pea-sized dollop for children three to six years old. Brush with a soft-bristled brush. Once teeth are touching, you can start flossing your children’s teeth to remove bacteria.
Brushing your teeth with your children helps show good oral hygiene and creates a routine that they can easily follow.
“If you practice good habits, they will want to do the same,” said Dr. Michelle Scholtz, DDS, Chief Dental Officer for Horizon Health.
Most children lack the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively until they are six years old or older. Experts recommend that you brush your children’s teeth for them until they are seven or eight years old.
According to the American Dental Association, 40% of children have dental decay by the time they reach kindergarten. This can cause tooth pain, infection, inability to chew, loss of confidence and malformed adult teeth. Infections can spread to other parts of the body causing more severe problems and inhibit the child’s development and ability to learn effectively.
Protecting baby teeth is critical to preserve overall health because thinner enamel on baby teeth makes them more susceptible to cavities. They are placeholders for adult teeth so diseased baby teeth could result in permanent teeth that do not grow correctly.
Before your child turns one schedule their first dental visit. Horizon Health sponsors free dental checkups for children from zero to five years of age in October. It is never too early to prioritize your child’s dental health. Schedule an appointment today!