How To Care For Your Child's Teeth by Gen Wright

A child's teeth begin to develop before birth, and this means you'll want to start caring for your child's teeth and gums at an early age. Start with a visit to your Concord dentist who specializes in pediatric dental care. This gives the dentist a chance to look for early problems with your child's teeth, establish a relationship with you and your child and help you understand how to best care for your child's teeth, including proper tooth brushing and a well-balanced diet.
Your Child's First Visit to the Dentist
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends taking your child to the dentist for an exam by their first birthday. During the initial visit, the dentist will explain proper brushing and flossing techniques as well as help in the early detection of potential dental problems. Your Concord dentist specializes in pediatric dental care and is trained to handle the wide range of issues associated with kids' dental health in a gentle and kid-friendly atmosphere. Visiting the dentist from a young age will help your child become comfortable with his or her dentist while keeping you educated with the best dental health practices for your child's teeth.
Tooth Brushing
When your child's first teeth erupt you should begin cleaning them with a special child's tooth brush. Make tooth brushing a regular activity so that it becomes a vital part of your child's daily routine, brushing at least twice a day and after meals.
When your child is about seven years old, teach them how to brush on their own. Make tooth brushing fun by doing it together, and purchase a fun-colored tooth brush and flavored tooth paste to make the experience as enjoyable as possible. Supervise your child while they are learning to brush, and provide plenty of encouragement and praise in order to establish a regular habit of good oral hygiene.
Diet and Your Child's Teeth
Food choices and eating habits which are established during childhood can affect a child's dental health and well-being for the rest of their life. Therefore, it's important for parents to promote a well-balanced diet and limit sugar intake in their child's diet as this is one of the best ways to prevent tooth decay. To avoid cavities, have meals and snacks at regular times, and refrain from eating sugary foods and drinks between meals. Nutritional, tooth-friendly snacks include fresh fruits and vegetables, and cheese and crackers.
Caring for your child's teeth and gums should begin at an early age. Visit a pediatric Concord dentist and help your child become familiar with the dentist so they'll be less likely to fear dental care as they grow older. Once you understand proper techniques for brushing your child's teeth and the importance of a nutritional diet, you can help your child learn the importance of regular oral hygiene and help them achieve a beautiful, healthy smile into adulthood.

About the Author

Dr. Reza Khazaie of Dental Specialty Group is an experienced prosthodontist and dentist in Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek and Antioch. Offering years of dental experience, Dr. Khazaie and his professional staff provide a number of services, including implants, TMJ and dentures that deliver enhanced smiles and healthy teeth.