Developing proper oral hygiene habits early in childhood is crucial in ensuring continued practise into adulthood. This means starting very early, even before your baby’s teeth have emerged.
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It is important to be aware that primary tooth enamel is much thinner and less resistant to decay than adult teeth. The key to successful teeth brushing for young children is ensuring that they are accustomed to the experience of having their teeth and gums touched and cleaned as early on as possible.
At birth, start by cleaning your child’s gums with a soft cloth and water. This early oral stimulation may help prevent fungal infections such as oral thrush, and also makes acceptance of the toothbrush less of a challenge once the teeth start to erupt.
First Visit to the Dentist
The American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Paediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend establishing a 'Dental Home' for your child by one year of age, with follow-up visits every six months. Although the first visit will not likely be much more than a quick examination, it will assist your child in becoming familiar with the process of having their teeth examined and will also allow the dentist to provide some helpful suggestions regarding oral healthcare. These examinations are also essential for early detection and the interception of any problems. You can find a list of Cayman's dentists at the bottom of this article.
Should My Child Brush His/Her Own Teeth?
Fostering an early independence in oral hygiene is important for your child’s development and allowing them to brush their own teeth is crucial. However, until a child is around eight years old, they often will not comprehend that their teeth are three-dimensional objects (although they should still be brushing before this age). They may not understand that in order to properly clean a tooth, it must be brushed not only on the top side (chewing surface) but also the cheek side, tongue side, and in some cases, the back side. “Brushing your child's teeth twice a day is crucial to their oral health,” Dr Childers advises. “Once your child is old enough, they can begin brushing on their own, but should still be assisted and monitored to ensure plaque is being removed from all surfaces."
Proper Tooth Brushing, Frequency & Technique
Prevention is key; the AAPD recommends using fluoridated toothpaste (ADA approved) as soon as the first teeth erupt. At the first glimpse of primary teeth, switch to a soft-bristled, age-appropriate toothbrush.
For two to three year olds, only use a smear of fluoridated toothpaste at first. Gradually, as more baby teeth appear, you can increase the amount of toothpaste until you get to a ‘pea-sized’ drop once all 20 primary teeth are present. Early childhood tooth decay can start suddenly and spread very quickly; dentist visits every six months are therefore essential.
Brush your child’s teeth gently, but thoroughly, twice a day. The last brush of the day should be after your child’s last food or drink (other than water) and right before they are put to bed. This will ensure you significantly decrease or eliminate any food particles that cavity-causing bacteria feed on. These bacteria are especially active at night when a child is sleeping and their saliva production is minimal.
Top Tip
Don't let your child share their toothbrush. Toothbrushes can harbour Streptococcus mutans, which is the bacteria responsible for tooth decay.
Flossing
Once your child starts to grow new teeth, their teeth should be flossed at least once a day, preferably before bed. Thoroughly floss the teeth at any point where the teeth are touching each other — the toothbrush cannot adequately clean these areas, which leaves them particularly susceptible to decay. Devices such as ‘floss wands’ for kids make this task more of a fun activity. “Floss wands are easier for both the parent and the child to use”, says Dr Childers, “look for floss wands that have fluoride built into them for added cavity protection.”
Breast Feeding & Bottle Use
The most common and serious cause of Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is frequent and long exposures of an infant’s teeth to liquids that contain sugars, both natural and artificial. Among these liquids are milk (including breast milk), formula, fruit juice, and other sweetened drinks. Putting a baby to bed for a nap or at night with a bottle other than water can cause serious and rapid tooth decay. These liquids pool around the teeth and feed the bacteria in the mouth, which in turn produce acids that attack tooth enamel. This type of destructive tooth decay is also known as Nursing Bottle Caries or Baby Bottle Tooth Decay.
Top Tip
Not all toothpastes in Cayman contain fluoride, so this is something you should check either yourself or with your dentist. Toothpastes containing 1,000 or 1,500ppm of fluoride are most effective for children over three years old. Children under three should brush twice daily with a smear of toothpaste containing at least 1,000ppm fluoride.
