Taking Care Of Your Toddler's Teeth: What You Should Know

Your toddler's teeth are just emerging, but that doesn't mean that you don't have to be concerned with them. Now is the time to start implementing a dental care routine for your toddler and showing your child the importance of taking care of their oral health. To help take care of your toddler's oral health, there are a number of things you can and should be doing. Read on for helpful information.

Use Toddler Toothpaste

Toddler toothpaste or training toothpaste doesn't have fluoride in it, so it's perfect for toddlers just learning how to brush their teeth. They still only need a tiny amount (about the size of a grain of rice) when brushing. There are a number of different flavors to choose from and you can have your child pick out their toothpaste and toothbrush to make it fun.

Guide Your Child

You should brush your child's teeth, as they aren't going to be able to reach all of their teeth just yet, or maneuver the toothbrush on their own to reach their teeth properly. You can give them the toothbrush to practice on their own, but brush your child's teeth as well to clean them properly. Show your child the proper way to brush their teeth and remember to brush their teeth every morning and every night. This will show your child the routine of when they should be brushing their teeth.

Be A Good Example

Set a good example for your child  by brushing your teeth and taking good care of your teeth as well. Go to the dentist and allow your toddler to see you doing this so they can see how important oral health is. You can also help show your child the importance of oral health by reading books about teeth care, or about going to the dentist. Look for a book with your child's favorite character or author, or allow your child to pick out a book about going to the dentist or about oral care.

Go To The Dentist

Be sure you are taking your toddler to the dentist. You should take your child to the dentist after their teeth begin to emerge. If your child has any teeth at all, it's time to take your child to the dentist for an exam and cleaning. Your child's dentist can help offer tips to take care of your child's teeth, and can also spot any issues with your child's teeth and gums ahead of time. 

If your toddler is starting to get their baby teeth, be sure you are taking good care of them. The baby teeth will fall out, but the adult teeth underneath will be affected if you don't take good care of their teeth now. Talk to your pediatric dental care provider about other helpful tips to take care of their teeth.