Stag Special

April is dental health month, so what better time for 1 Dental Unit Det Shilo to share information concerning children’s oral health.
As soon as children get their first tooth they are susceptible to tooth decay. It is important to remember that as soon as their first tooth erupts, proper oral hygiene should begin.
Early Childhood Tooth Decay (ECTD) occurs when a child’s teeth are frequently exposed to sugary liquids or foods causing acid attacks which break down tooth enamel. It may seem silly to brush one tooth in an infant’s mouth, but formula, breast milk, and cow’s milk all contain sugar; therefore, presenting a host for plaque to grow and the potential for cavities.
It is also recommended to use a clean wet washcloth to clean a baby’s gums daily. Limiting sugary foods/drinks and putting a baby to bed with a bottle of water instead of milk will help prevent ECTD.
Primary (baby) teeth are important because: they last for one-sixth of a person’s life; chewing on well-formed teeth helps the jaw bones to grow and develop properly; baby teeth provide proper space for the eruption of permanent teeth; they are necessary for proper chewing of food and normal digestive processes; they are also necessary for the development of sounds and proper speech development; healthy baby teeth are important for a child’s self esteem and well being; and children do not lose all of their baby teeth at once. Some baby molars are expected to be in the child’s mouth until age 12 or 13.
It is the parents’ responsibility to ensure their children are brushing their teeth two times a day for approximately two minutes each time — morning and before bedtime. Always use a soft bristled toothbrush.
No tooth paste is required until the child understands he/she should not swallow the toothpaste; at which point, it can be introduced in a very tiny amount.
Parents should encourage children to brush their own teeth, but should assist with and supervise brushing, until a child is aged seven or eight to ensure all plaque is removed.
Your dentist will recommend the child brush/floss first, so they can practice. Then a parent should brush again for the child to ensure all areas were cleaned properly.
Oral health is an important component of overall health. Proper dental care will provide a child with a healthy smile and ensure a solid foundation for life health.

Dentists have plenty of unique equipment, including panorama x-rays, to help with dental care during your appointment. If you are getting braces, you will have a mould of your teeth made. Soft bristle brushes are preferred when it comes to brushing your teeth. Photos Jules Xavier/Shilo Stag