Just because your child will eventually lose their baby teeth doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take care of them! Let’s look at some things you can do to keep those tiny teeth healthy.
Brush at the first sign of teeth
Once those first pearly whites pop through, you can go ahead and start brushing your child’s teeth on a daily basis! Use an infant toothbrush and a tiny sliver (the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride-free toothpaste until your child learns how to spit their toothpaste out. Starting at the age of 3, you can give them a pea-size drop of toothpaste.
Feed your child healthy foods
Tiny teeth need nutrient-rich foods in order to stay healthy and strong. This is why eating a well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy is an important step in keeping your child’s teeth healthy. We understand kids are often drawn to unhealthy foods, so try making healthy food kid-friendly by incorporating nutritious foods into smoothies or spaghetti. This ensures your child is eating foods that will strengthen their teeth from the inside out.
Limit sugary drinks to mealtimes
If your child drinks beverages other than water throughout the day, they put themselves at risk for tooth decay. This is because the sugars in these drinks corrode the enamel on your child’s teeth. You should limit these drinks in general, but if your child wants to drink soda or some juice, have them drink it with their meal instead of sipping on it all day. This way, any fibrous rich foods they eat can help wash away the sugar.
In addition to all of the above, take your child to the dentist on a regular basis. A dentist can evaluate your child’s oral hygiene and can help you determine what other specific things you need to do to keep those tiny teeth healthy.