Dental Care for Kids: What Parents Need to Know at Every Age

Most parents know that their child needs a special diet, an active exercise routine, and regular challenging mental stimulation to stay healthy and on-track with their peers. But what about their teeth? Contrary to popular belief, children’s teeth also require special care to develop. Parents can help set their children up for a lifetime of great oral health by instilling healthy habits early.  Read on to learn the basics of good dental care habits for children of all ages.

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• Infants. Your child’s teeth may not have broken the surface of his or her gums yet, but parents can still help keep infants’ mouths clean. After feedings, run a wet cloth along your child’s gums to prevent trapped food and bacteria from sticking around.
• Toddlers. You should schedule an appointment with your child’s dentist in Doylestown, PA before his or her first birthday. Children at this age may begin experiencing teething pain, so keep a cool teething ring on-hand or gently massage the child’s gums with your fingers to soothe the pain.
• Preschoolers and school-aged children. Children will usually have their first set of teeth by the time they turn 2 and should be brushing with a soft bristle toothbrush twice a day. Visits to your family dentist in Doylestown, PA are recommended every 6 months to prevent cavities and make sure gums are staying healthy as soon as the child turns 4.
• Preteens and teenagers. Most children lose the remainder of their baby teeth around age 12; at this point, oral health becomes especially important, as permanent teeth finish descending. Some preteens and teenagers may require special orthodontic procedures, like the use of braces or retainers, to realign crooked teeth. While you might think that misaligned teeth are  just a cosmetic issue, they can cause issues with chewing and biting, and over time uncorrected misaligned teeth may lead to chronic headaches or gum disease. Be sure to schedule regular visits to the dentist every 6 months and address orthodontic needs as they arise.

Still searching for the right dentist for your family? Bash Dental is here to help! Give our team a call today at (215) 348-8877 to schedule an appointment today.