Tips for getting toddlers into a good dental hygiene routine
The first teeth that babies get are obviously going to fall out at some point but it is still important to look after them and teach your little one to look after them. The first teeth help them to chew, talk and make space for their adult teeth.
Start brushing once you see the first one coming through
Lucas is 18 months old and has a few teeth now; since he got his first one, I gave him a toothbrush and let him chew on it while I did my teeth. I then go over his teeth once he has finished doing them himself. Getting Lucas used to doing this morning and night is setting the routine for him to continue with good habits.
Use ordinary toothpaste and a baby toothbrush
Lucas uses the same toothpaste as us; there are so many options available that say they are specifically for babies or children, but we were told by the dentist, midwife and health visitor that there is no need to use those. As long as the toothpaste has 1450ppm fluoride, it is fine for every family member. Lucas is now used to the minty toothpaste flavour as well rather than getting used to a fruity baby flavour than us trying to change him to mint toothpaste once he is older. We use a small smear on his baby toothbrush, replacing the toothbrush every 1-3 months when the bristles start to spread. Use small, circular movements to care for the gums, which will be very tender during teething.
Encourage them to drink water
My Mum has often joked with me about how boring Lucas’ water is and why don’t I give him a little juice. Lucas does get juice occasionally, but I mainly give him water. Lucas enjoys water and doesn’t know otherwise, so why would I encourage sugary drinks?
Encourage healthy snacks
If you give your child sugary snacks or drinks, give them at meal times to give their teeth time to recover; for snacks between meals, offer savoury snacks such as cheese or vegetables. Encourage them to have a cup of water after a meal to wash any sugary remnants away.
Have regular dentist appointments
Lucas has visited the dentist with me since before he had teeth, as I want him to get used to the environment and hopefully reduce any issues with him not wanting the dentist to look in his mouth. This also gave the dentist chance to check his gums before his teeth came through. If you are struggling to find dentists to take on new patients, google dentist and the place you live, such as dentist Peterborough.
Make it fun
You can get so many various timers now; Lucas had one with Thomas the Tank Engine going around a track for as long as he should brush. You can also let them tick it off on a teeth brushing chart.
