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Dental Health Tips for Parents

dental health teeth smileCavities are the most common childhood health problem and if left untreated can cause a whole host of serious health problems. However, cavities need not be so prevalent as they are completely preventable.
Here are some age-specific tips for parents who want their kids to have healthy teeth and a bright smile.

Babies

  • Use a warm washcloth to clean out your infant’s mouth after a feeding.
  • No matter how fussy baby gets, don’t put them to bed with a bottle. Opt for a blanket or another soothing method.
  • You may see other parents use their own mouths to clean pacifiers or bottles — but this is actually a horrible idea as it can spread cavity-causing germs.
  • A baby is ready for their first dental check-up few months before their first birthday.

Toddlers

  • Get your toddler to smile and use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste on your disinfected finger to brush their teeth twice a day.
  • 4 ounces of fruit juice per day is the limit and sugary drinks are never a good idea (for plenty of reasons).
  • Tooth healthy snacks include crunchy fruits and veggies, cheese and nuts (check for allergies of course).
  • Don’t share utensils with your toddler as this spreads bacteria.
  • Take your toddler for a dental check up every 6 months to help get them used to visiting the dentist.

Children

  • Brush and floss together with your kids twice a day, taking the time to show them proper technique.
  • Kids should play sports with a mouth guard.
  • Ask your dentist about dental sealants for your kids back molars, and get your kids to see the dentist every six months.

At Balsall Common Dental Practice we see children under 4 years old without charge.

Children aged 4 and over can join our ‘Children’s Plan’

Download a voucher for 6 months free ‘Child Plan’ membership for new patients.
6 Months Free Child Plan

 

 

Dr Ashley Davenport BDS MFGDP(UK)

I qualified as a dentist in 1995 and can honestly say that I have been doing a job that I love for the past 20 plus years. Most people who know me well know that dentistry is a passion for me and that if I won the lottery I would still want to have some dentistry in my life. I get huge satisfaction from treating patients and making a difference to ...

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201 Station Road
Balsall Common
Coventry
West Midlands
CV7 7FD
Tel: 01676 529000

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Last updated: March 28th, 2024

All our dentists adhere to the guidelines governing the profession which can be viewed on the GDC website.

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