Oral Health Care in Children

Oral health care in children is essential for preventing dental issues and fostering overall well-being. Incorporating oral health into a family adventure can make the routine more engaging and effective. For example, establish a family tradition where everyone eats meals together, followed by a collective brushing session. This not only ensures that children learn proper brushing techniques but also creates a positive attitude and reinforces good oral hygiene habits in a fun, shared experience.  

A child’s dental care should begin as soon as the first tooth can be seen erupting in the mouth.  This usually happens when a baby is 6-12 months old, but there is a very wide range of normal, with some baby teeth erupting in babies younger than 6 months while others don’t get their first tooth until well after their first birthday.  

 As soon as you can see a tooth in your baby’s mouth, it’s important to begin proper hygiene, which means cleaning the teeth, either with a wet washcloth or a small, soft toothbrush.  Get your baby used to having your hands in their mouth!  No toothpaste is necessary at first, and toothpaste that contains fluoride should not be used in kids until they are able to spit it out consistently.  As kids get older, they will want to brush their own teeth, but until they are able to brush and floss their teeth effectively, the parents should help. 

 Proper tooth maintenance is critical in order for babies and children to obtain good nutrition for normal growth.  Teeth also aid in the development of language and social skills.  Premature loss of baby teeth can have a negative impact on jaw development, lead to tooth shifting and poor occlusion, pain or difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking, and can cause kids to feel self-conscious about how they look.  Cavities can cause pain and infection, again leading to poor nutrition, disruption of sleep, interruption of school and difficulty concentrating and learning. By combining regular dental check-ups, a balanced diet, and family involvement, you promote both healthy teeth and a supportive environment for maintaining oral health. 

 Dr. Cynthia Brooks and Dr. Akriti Gupta, River Run Dental Charlottesville