If you have just had your first child, you are probably starting to realize that you have a lot to learn. How often should they go to the doctor? When will they start talking? And when do you have to start worrying about keeping their teeth and gums healthy? You have a lot of questions, and Hampton Dental Associates has answers!
6+ Things You Should Know
Some of the things you need to know about raising kids is simply common sense. But you might need a little help with some of the rest! Here are some things to keep in mind about your child’s oral health:
1. Your child should stop sucking their thumb and/or using a pacifier by the time they are 3 or 4. By this age, these habits can start to affect how their teeth are coming in, and if they don’t come in correctly it can cause problems and pain in the future.
2. Many parents are surprised to find out that it is recommended that children start seeing the dentist when they are as young as a year old. Thereafter, they should see their dentist every 6 months, just like adults do (unless your dentist advises otherwise, of course).
3. Yes, you should take care of their oral health even before they have teeth! Keep their gums healthy by keeping them clean. Wipe them down with a wet cloth after every feeding.
4. Yes, you should take care of their baby teeth, even though they’ll eventually fall out (beginning at around 6 years old). They are important to ensure the proper spacing of their permanent teeth. And, issues with baby teeth can lead to other problems as well.
5. When they start getting teeth, start brushing them with a tiny amount of toothpaste – about the size of a grain of rice.
6. When they are around 6 years old, they should be able to brush their teeth without adult help.
Do you have questions about your child’s oral health? Or is it time for their first dental appointment? Call Hampton Dental Associates in Milwaukee. Call (414) 464-9021 for an appointment today!
