The Importance of Oral and Dental Care in Children
Children's dental health is one of the cornerstones of a healthy life. Tooth decay is considered one of the most common health problems in children. It is possible to prevent these problems to a large extent with precautions taken at an early age. Therefore, it is extremely important for parents to give the necessary importance to their children's oral and dental health.
Starting Oral Care at an Early Age
According to International Pediatric Dentistry data, oral and dental care should begin as soon as the first baby tooth appears (usually between 6-10 months). During this process, it is recommended to use special finger brushes or gauze to clean babies' teeth. Paying attention to oral hygiene, especially after breastfeeding or bottle feeding, plays a critical role in preventing future cavities.
Gaining the Habit of Brushing Teeth
It is possible for children to acquire the habit of brushing their teeth with the support of their parents. Twice a dayBrushing your teeth with toothpaste containing fluoride in an age-appropriate amount is essential to protect oral health. It is recommended to use a smear of toothpaste for children under 3 years of age, a pea-sized amount for children between 3 and 6 years of age, and a normal amount of toothpaste, as for adults, for children over 6 years of age.
Brushing Teeth with Parental Support
Brushing your teeth is not just a habit, but also an activity that requires fine motor skills. Therefore, it is extremely important for parents to support children while brushing their teeth. According to the recommendations of the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry (EAPD), children should be guided by a parent or caregiver during tooth brushing until the age of 7. Soft-bristled toothbrushes should be preferred during the brushing process and all surfaces of the teeth should be cleaned with circular movements for at least two minutes.
The Importance of Using Dental Floss
Brushing your teeth may not completely clean the contact surfaces between your teeth. For this reason, children should be taught to floss every day when their baby molars erupt. Applying floss once a day, preferably in the evening, together with brushing, greatly contributes to oral health.
Things to Consider When Using Mouthwash
Mouthwash is not recommended for children under the age of six. This is because there is a risk of swallowing mouthwash in this age group. Children over the age of six can safely use mouthwash containing fluoride under parental supervision. Mouthwash helps clean teeth as well as bacteria in the mouth.
First Dentist Check
Regular dentist check-ups are of great importance for children's dental health. Starting with the emergence of the first tooth, dentist check-ups play a critical role in protecting children's oral health and preventing fear of the dentist. Thanks to regular check-ups every six months, cavities can be diagnosed early and necessary preventive measures can be taken in a timely manner.
Healthy Teeth Raise Healthy Individuals
Protecting children’s oral and dental health is not limited to physical health; it creates positive effects in many areas from social life to psychological development. Parents’ awareness and sensitivity in this regard will contribute greatly to children growing up as healthy individuals. It should not be forgotten that healthy teeth are the foundation of a healthy life.
