Before a child has their first tooth break the skin of their gumline, which often occurs before their first birthday, it is important for a parent or parental guardian to start planning their oral health care. A well laid out plan is the first step in creating a safe habitat for their teeth and gums to thrive. They will not be able to take care of their oral health care needs for at least the first six years of their life, so their care must be done by others.
Always make sure that your children are being fed healthy foods and served healthy drinks. Some foods and drinks can be broken down into harmful acids within our mouths. These harmful acids have the capability of eating through tooth enamel. If the child uses pacifiers, never dip them in sugary or sweet substances. Also, do not share eating utensils with the child as you can pass harmful bacteria onto them.
After your child’s first tooth has broken through the skin, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist at Texas Kids Dental for an oral examination at one of our offices in El Paso, Fabens, and Horizon City, Texas, and surrounding areas.
After the first tooth has appeared, you should begin brushing the child’s mouth. Until they are three years old, you do not need to use more than a grain-sized amount of toothpaste for each cleaning. Always use dentist-recommended toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
For more information about your child’s oral health, or to schedule a visit with one of our dentists, we can be reached at 915-304-3070. We look forward to making your child’s smile shine bright!