Six tips to care for your toddler’s teeth

Caring for your toddler’s teeth should begin early. You must develop the tools and habits that will help your toddler have the best oral health.

1. 1. Begin oral hygiene habits as soon as possible. Use a damp cloth to clean the inside of your baby’s mouth as well as any teeth that may have erupted.
   2. Be careful when brushing! Always use a soft bristle brush with just a small amount of toothpaste to clean your toddler’s teeth.
   3. Show your toddler the proper way to brush. You should help them brush their teeth until they are able to brush properly on their own. Here is a video from the American Dental Association that may help you teach your toddler how to brush their teeth.
   4. Limit simple sugars in your toddler’s diet. Although it is difficult, try to limit the amount of simple sugar your child has in their diet. It’s important for a child to eat a simple whole natural diet, that is low in simple sugar.
   5. Schedule dental checkups every 6 months. It is important to have your child seen by a pediatric dentist every six months because it is a necessary step in preventing oral disease. The old saying rings true “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.
   6. Seal toddler teeth to prevent disease! Some studies indicate that sealing permanent first molars may reduce the chance of decay by 60-80% on sealed surfaces. Sealants may greatly reduce the chance of pit and fissure decay in primary and permanent posterior teeth. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of their teeth where most decay starts. Here is a link to learn more from the American Dental Association.

   Our Pediatric Dentists are here to help, call Anchorage Pediatric Dentistry at (907) 562-1003  to discuss your toddlers oral care.