At the birth of their first child, new parents suddenly take on a lifetime of responsibilities and decisions that need to be made. Some of these responsibilities they may have planned for and others may take them by surprise. One of the most important responsibilities that new parents face is taking care of the health of their children. Moreover, this responsibility extends to keeping their mouth, gums, and teeth healthy and strong. Two of the most important essentials of dental care for children include regular oral hygiene and finding a dentist for children in Spokane Valley WA sometime before their first birthday.
Many new parents would be surprised to learn that dental care for children should begin while the child is still a baby. When that first tooth erupts, it is important to start brushing to remove plaque and prevent decay. Look for a small toothbrush that has very soft bristles. As the child grows, he or she will probably need assistance with brushing. Very small children are not usually adept enough at the task to do an adequate job. It is important to use a very small amount of fluoride toothpaste for children less than 2 years of age. Older children can use a pea sized amount of toothpaste under a parent’s guidance. Getting in the habit of brushing night and morning as a young child may translate into good oral hygiene habits for many years to come.
It may also be surprising to new parents that their child needs to see a dentist for children in Spokane Valley WA in the first year of life. Taking a child to the dentist early on is beneficial for several reasons. First of all, if a child gets into the habit of regularly visiting the dentist it may alleviate fears later on. In addition, a dentist can identify possible problems before they have a chance to become severe. A dentist for children in Spokane Valley WA can also help parents and children learn proper oral hygiene techniques.
Some parents may mistakenly underestimate the need to take care of baby teeth. These first teeth are essential for helping children to chew correctly and speak clearly. Additionally, they help the mouth to be positioned correctly for permanent teeth in the future. It is also important to understand that even baby teeth can be subject to decay and cause infections and pain. Daily oral hygiene at home and regular visits to a dentist may prevent these problems and help to create a healthy, clean smile that will last a lifetime.
