According to the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the age when kids become toddlers is generally 1-3, although there’s some variation among the upper age limit of toddlerhood according to other sources. At this age, kids are on the go, exploring everything with their senses, and leaving tired parents in their wake. It’s also one of the most important times for you as a parent to be helping them establish good oral health routines.
In this post, we’ll share some of the top things we think parents should know when it comes to taking care of their toddlers’ teeth and all their supporting structures.
Tooth Decay Can Occur as Soon as Teeth Appear
Although most kids start getting their first teeth around 5-6 months, some won’t have their first teeth appear until they’re about a year old. When teeth first appear, that’s when you have to start working against tooth decay and start your child’s daily brushing routine.
Know the Right Amount of Toothpaste to Use
The American Dental Association recommends caregivers brush their kids’ teeth until they’re able to do it properly by themselves for about 2 minutes. For kids 3 and under, use a dab of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain a rice. Kids 3 to 6 can increase this amount to about the size of a pea.
Know What’s Normal with Teething
When your baby starts teething, it’s the start of a process that will last until they’re about 3. It’s completely normal for young children to become cranky, lose some sleep, not eat as much, and drool A LOT. If your child experiences symptoms like a rash, high fever, or diarrhea, the American Dental Association recommends contacting your pediatrician to make sure everything’s OK.
Be Careful with Pacifiers
Pacifiers can be a great comfort item for younger kids but be careful with them because some common practices with them can increase the risk of tooth decay. For example, some parents dip their pacifiers in sweet substances as a treat, which can press sugary surfaces against tooth enamel for long periods of time. Don’t do this!
Ask Your Dentist about Sealants
One of the hardest areas for kids to keep clean are the surfaces on their rear teeth. They’re hard to reach and sugary stuff likes to get stuck back there. Sealants are a great, safe way to put a barrier between cavity-causing bacteria and tooth enamel.
Pay Attention to Tooth Spacing
Toddlers’ teeth are shifting and moving around in their mouths all the time. As such, it’s important for parents to take an active role in monitoring the way teeth come in. Poor tooth spacing can create areas that are very hard to clean and prone to decay and/or gum disease.
Thanks for Reading!
Raising a toddler is hard, but very worthwhile work! Teaching them good oral health habits and making sure they have regular dental checkups and cleanings are among some of the best ways you can set them up for great health down the road.
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