3 Questions to Ask Your Child’s Dentist About Oral Hygiene Basics

When you and your child visit the dentist, you expect to get your child’s teeth cleaned and learn the current state of their dental health. However, many parents overlook the expertise dentists can provide about the important aspects of oral hygiene basics.

3 FAQs about children’s oral care

In addition to caring for teeth, dentists can offer helpful recommendations for young patients to maintain their tooth health. Discuss these important topics with your child’s dentist.

1. How can I protect my child’s teeth as they age?

By incorporating a healthy regimen of oral hygiene basics into your child's daily routine, you can help them keep their natural teeth throughout their lifetime. Your child's dentist may recommend the following to protect their teeth:

• Schedule regular check-ups and professional cleanings for your child at the dentist.
• Ensure your child brushes their teeth twice a day using quality fluoride toothpaste to eliminate plaque, which is the main cause of tooth decay.
• Consider using a daily mouthwash or mouth rinse designed to prevent plaque from forming on your child’s teeth.
• Teach your child to remove plaque from under their gum line and between their teeth with brushing and flossing before it can form into tartar.
• Encourage your child to limit between-meal snacks, especially sticky, sugary, or starchy foods. These snacks enable plaque acids to attack the protective enamel on their teeth.

2. How can I avoid gum disease?

Periodontal disease occurs after a buildup of bacteria in plaque. If this condition is left untreated, the gums and supporting bone structures can deteriorate, causing receding gums and tooth loss. Your child’s dentist can educate you on the current state of their gums and advise you on how to prevent future periodontal disease with these oral hygiene basics.

Teach your child to brush their teeth after meals to remove food debris and plaque. Encourage them to brush their tongue to remove bacteria in their mouth. In addition, show your child how to floss along the gum line to reach areas where their toothbrush might miss. Using a mouth rinse can remove any remaining particles. Be aware of the risk factors for gum disease, including age, diet, and genetics. Understanding these factors can help you take preventive measures.

3. What foods are recommended for good oral health?

As part of good oral hygiene basics, dentists encourage a diet high in fiber, low in carbohydrates and sugars, and rich in important nutrients that aid in healthy teeth. These include calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It's also important to avoid acidic, sugary, and processed foods that lack significant nutritional value.

Here are some recommended foods for your child's oral health:

• Cacao nibs or low-sugar dark chocolate. Chocolate (without sugar) can block certain oral bacteria from forming plaque.
• Citrus fruits. These foods, such as grapefruits and oranges, contain vitamin C, which slows gum inflammation.
• Fish. The vitamin D in fish helps deliver calcium to the teeth, and the omega-3 fats support gum health.
• Grass-fed dairy products. Foods like cheese and butter contain K2, a vital nutrient for healthy teeth.
• Dark and leafy greens. They are high in minerals and help support a healthy oral microbiome. Examples include kale and spinach.