April 5, 2018
When Should Your Child Begin Using Toothpaste and How Much Should They Use?
It is such an exciting moment to see your baby’s first teeth arrive. Did you know that once you see those tiny little pearly whites, it is time to start dental care? Starting caring for your child’s teeth at an early age will ensure they enjoy a healthy smile for years to come!
Why Is It Important to Care for Your Child’s Teeth?
Even though your child’s baby teeth are small and will eventually fall out, it’s important to keep them healthy and free of decay. If your child does not have healthy teeth, speaking clearly and chewing may be problematic. Baby teeth also act as placeholders for the permanent adult teeth. Starting good oral hygiene at a young age will teach your child the importance of caring for teeth.
When Should Your Child Begin Using Toothpaste?
Did you know that from the time your baby is born, you need to make sure you regularly clean the gums with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants? Once the first pearly white erupts, It’s time to begin brushing twice a day using fluoride-free infant and toddler toothpaste.
With the eruption of the first tooth, you should also schedule your child’s first appointment with a pediatric dentist. We at Jet Set Smiles in North Phoenix are here to care for your child’s dental needs and to work with you to set the stage for a lifetime of oral health.
How Much Toothpaste Should Your Child Use?
If your child is under two years old, only a tiny smear of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice is needed. Once your child turns three, you can move to a pea-sized amount of toothpaste as recommended by your child’s pediatric dentist. You will continue this practice until your child turns five.
Brush your child’s teeth gently until he or she is old enough to hold the brush. Continue to monitor your child while brushing to teach proper techniques and to make sure he or she swallows no toothpaste. Make brushing a fun event for your child. Spend some time together choosing a favorite toothbrush and an appealing toothpaste flavor to establish good dental care habits. Make sure to supervise the process until your child is old enough to rinse and spit without your assistance, which is usually around when he or she turns six.
Make sure to keep an eye out for any signs of baby tooth decay such as brown or white spots, or pits on the teeth. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, make sure to come to our office for a checkup.
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment Today
Contact us today at Jet Set Smiles to learn more about caring for your child’s teeth for a lifetime of oral health. We will work with you to establish good oral hygiene habits and will make sure your child’s teeth remain healthy. If you are a parent living in North Phoenix and are looking for specialized dentistry solutions for kids,we are here to help. Our experienced and child-friendly staff is committed to ensuring your child enjoys a childhood with healthy, happy smiles!