  |
|
|
|
Taking care of your teeth is an important part of being a child, and taking care of your CHILDREN'S teeth is a very important part of being an adult. Not only can oral health effect your entire body physically, the emotional issues associated with tooth decay and bad breath really make their mark. Take these handy steps to ensure your child's pearly whites stay that way. Step Number One: A Healthy Diet Not only do children need a balanced diet to develop strong teeth and gums, but what your kids eat have a real bearing on how healthy those teeth will stay. Some parents think the only culprits are snack or junk foods but according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry starches do just as much damage. Bread, pasta, dairy products, dried fruit and crackers are some of the surprising foods that can damage young teeth. Restricting snack times, and brushing after eating will reduce their chances of tooth decay. A major breakthrough in oral health came during the 1960s when fluoride was first added to community drinking water. Fluoride helps prevent and can reverse some tooth decay. It is also available in toothpastes and mouthwashes, and in prescription gels available through a dentist's office. For this reason adding tap water to your child's diet is a good idea. Some experts recommend serving one glass of milk or juice with dinner, than refilling with water. It helps oral health AND your budget. STEP NUMBER TWO: BRUSH AND FLOSS AFTER MEALS While fluoride has been a wonderful advancement, it also comes with risks. Children under 2 should never use a fluoride toothpaste, and children under 6 should be kept away from mouthwashes containing it. FLUORIDE CAN BE DEADLY TO SMALL CHILDREN! Although in most instances a very large amount must be ingested, when in doubt call your local poison control or dial 911. The AAPD recommends brushing with water only until the age of 2. This begins with the arrival of baby's first tooth, and should take place after every meal and before bedtime. Preventing tooth decay in youngsters is aided by giving them only water at night, and restricting pacifier and bottle use. Children should be taught to floss once a day to remove food particles from between teeth. This is a breeding ground for decay, cavities that often require fillings. Although fluoride treatments and sealants have cut down on the number of fillings necessary to stay orally healthy, there are still situations where a filling is best. Anything is better than losing a permanent tooth or needing a root canal. Go To Page: 1 2
The copyright of the article Dealing With Tooth Decay: Part 1 in Children's Products is owned by Hilary Evans. Permission to republish Dealing With Tooth Decay: Part 1 in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
|
|
|
|
