Let’s Celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month

February is Children’s Dental Health Month – a month dedicated to the awareness and promotion of healthy hygiene habits in children. At Brown and Gettings, DDS, we routinely promote the importance of oral and overall health, so it is important to us that children follow those same guidelines. Early childhood tooth decay is on the rise, so it is the perfect time to review healthy habits that your children can follow from infancy through adulthood.

Brushing Teeth With a Child

It is no secret that children aren’t the best brushers. Many children avoid the task at all cost, while others chew on the toothbrush or suck on the toothpaste. Although it’s not fun for adults to add yet another job to the endless task list, it is nevertheless important to teach children the proper way to brush and ensure that they are doing it correctly. Children need to brush for two minutes twice a day. We suggest that children from the age of three and up use a pea size amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Parents or caregivers of infants might be surprised to learn that it is important to brush their gums daily. A damp washcloth makes the perfect tool to gently wipe away milk residue that can breed harmful bacteria. Once a child gets their first tooth, an infant toothbrush can be used with some warm water.

When Should a Child Visit the Dentist?

Once a child reaches their first birthday, they are ready for their first dentist appointment. It is important to schedule dental visits for children every six months, just as recommended for an adult. If your child is older and has not yet visited the dentist, we highly suggest calling today to schedule an appointment. It is important that we check your child’s mouth to make sure teeth are growing properly and they are not suffering from tooth decay. 

If you have any concerns about your loved one’s teeth or are unsure if they are following proper oral hygiene, please call us. We would be happy to speak with you. If your child is of age and has not visited the dentist for their first appointment, we recommend calling to schedule an appointment today. We look forward to seeing you and your family in our office located in West Chester, OH.