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Dental Care for Children in Toronto, ON

It is never too early to consult a dentist. Your child needs to see a dentist as soon as the first tooth appears, or he or she turns one, whichever is earlier. This is important because prevention of decay and other potential oral problems need to be addressed at this time to ensure optimal oral health as your little one develops and grows. Seeing a dentist at this time is also good because it helps your child become better accustomed to seeing a dentist for regular checkups. Also, the development of good habits (oral hygiene and dietary) needs to start early.

 

​​Many parents believe that since the first set of their child's teeth is temporary, they don't need to pay a lot of attention to them. However, dental problems can still arise. Cavities can develop, which may progress to infection and may lead to premature tooth loss.

A peony flower

Taking Care of Your Child's Teeth

As kids are dependent on their parents during their formative years, their oral hygiene becomes a parental responsibility. Here are a few things that you can do to ensure that your child’s gums and teeth remain healthy.

 

  • For babies with 1–2 teeth present, parents should use a damp piece of gauze to wipe the teeth clean. Toddlers and young children do not have the dexterity to brush properly. Parents should first brush for them with an appropriately sized toothbrush until the age of 8. Brush as best as you can, even if it is a bit of a struggle. Kneeling beside a young child with your arm around them can often help reduce the struggle.

  • After the age of 8, most children can brush by themselves. However, parental supervision regarding technique and frequency of brushing is a must.

  • Remember to change your child’s toothbrush immediately after an illness, and regularly, about every 2-3 months.

  • Rinse well with water after brushing and after baby feedings.

  • Use only a pea-sized amount of children’s fluoridated toothpaste once, and only if the child can predictably spit, otherwise, use water alone to brush.

  • Visit us every 6 months for a checkup and cleaning. Call us at 416-465-3111 if there are any questions or concerns or if your child has any pain or discomfort.

  • Babies should not go to bed with baby bottles or sippy-cups filled with milk, formula, juice, pop, etc. Only give them water at night. Otherwise, a lot of decay can develop. Cleanse the mouth with water once they awaken and after feedings.

  • Similarly, babies should not use baby bottles or sippy-cups filled with milk, formula, juice, pop, etc. for prolonged periods of time during the day as a lot of decay can occur. Cleanse the mouth with water after using a bottle or a sippy cup.

  • Baby teeth need to be restored if they have decay. These teeth hold space for the upcoming permanent teeth. Also, if the decay is left unchecked, infection and abscesses can occur.

  • At approximately 1 year of age, stop using the baby bottle and pacifier. Prolonged and extended use of the pacifier can negatively affect the rapidly developing bite. Switch to a regular cup or a sippy cup. Your child will adjust.

  • Avoid or limit sugary foods (cakes, cookies, candies), sticky foods (toffee, jelly beans, fruit roll-ups), and sugary drinks. Do not let them consume these often and never before bedtime. Always brush afterwards and rinse well with water.

  • Certain other habits such as prolonged thumb sucking or the presence of cross-bite can be corrected orthodontically, and necessary referrals will be made

Dental Care Tips for:

TIPS
NEW
TOD
CHILD
TEEN
NUTR
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