A great start to healthy teeth
One of the biggest myths surrounding children’s dental health is that baby teeth don’t matter, as they fall out anyway. We chat to two dentists about healthy tooth health for your toddler.
According to Dr Jean van Lierop, this couldn’t be further from the truth. “Milk teeth allow your child to eat properly and pronounce words correctly. Very importantly, they are also space keepers for the permanent teeth that follow. If a milk tooth is lost prematurely, it causes drifting of the teeth and permanent teeth are likely to come out in the incorrect position, which may necessitate early orthodontic treatment,” he says.
Start with the basics
From the age of one year, you should brush your child’s teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated children’s toothpaste - before that, use just a toothbrush and water. Use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and encourage your child to spit the toothpaste out afterwards, rather than swallowing it.
When is it time for the dentist?
According to Dr Shahnaz Khan, your child’s first visit to the dentist should take place after the eruption of their first tooth, or their first birthday – whichever comes first.
“This first visit is mostly educational and helps ensure that parents learn the tools they need to take care of their child’s teeth. I see so many cavities in children as young as 18 months old that could have been prevented if the parents had proper guidance regarding diet and oral health for their child,” she says.
Another benefit of visiting the dentist at an early age is that it establishes trust between your child and the dentist. “They learn that the dentist isn’t to be feared, but rather a place where they can have fun, get shiny teeth and get a prize afterwards,” says Dr Khan.
Here are a few tips to make your little one’s first dental visit a good one
Practise at home
“Role play is always useful. Before you visit, check your child’s teeth at home and let them check yours too,” suggests Dr Khan.
Choose a good time
“I generally advise parents to make appointments for early in the morning when the child is more alert and cooperative,” says Dr van Lierop.
Come prepared
“Let your child bring along a favourite toy or blanket as a source of comfort,” says Dr Khan.
Be positive
“Don’t relay your own dental fears onto them or share your own scary dental experiences with them,” says Dr van Lierop.
Be there for them
If possible, allow your child to sit on your lap in the examination room. This will help them perceive the visit to the dentist as a shared and positive experience.
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