Oral health plays an important role in the comprehensive development of children, from the ability to eat, communicate to smile later. However, many parents often think that only when their children are old do they need to start taking care of their teeth. In fact, oral hygiene should start from the first days of life.
According to Dr. Navdha Manaktala, a dentalist at Cure32 Clinic (India) - an expert of Only my health, early oral care will help children have strong teeth in the long term and prevent tooth decay, one of the chronic diseases that are very common in young children.
Ginger hygiene before your baby's teeth grow
Even if your baby has not yet developed a tooth, you should still clean your baby's gums after each feeding. Use a soft towel or clean towel soaked in warm water to gently exam the gums, helping to remove milk residue and prevent bacteria from accumulating.
Use toothpaste when your first tooth grow
As soon as the first tooth appears, start brushing your baby with ice cream containing fluoride in rice grains. Choose a soft toothbrush specifically for babies to clean teeth and protect tooth enamel.
Do not eat spoons, cups or taste baby food together
Parents eating together or sipping their child's food can accidentally transmit tooth decay bacteria to the child. Always use separate utensils when feeding your baby.
Limit kissing on the lips of children
Although this action shows affection, kissing on the lips can spread harmful bacteria into children's mouths, especially when adults have a history of oral diseases.
First dental check-up before 1st birthday
Parents should take your baby for a first dental check-up when he or she is about 12 months old, or within 6 months of the first tooth growth. This helps detect problems early and build a habit of oral care from a young age.
Note
A study published in the Journal of Pediatric Dentistry shows that children who receive early oral care have a 40% lower risk of tooth decay by the age of 5. In addition, parents' active participation in oral hygiene habits greatly affects children's long-term dental health.
Oral care for your baby is not complicated. With just a few simple steps a day, parents can help their children form good habits and protect a healthy smile from the first years of their life. The earlier it starts, the more obvious the results are.