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Oral health instructions and visits to dentist for children

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Harris
  • 36th Medical Operations Squadron Dental Flight
Developing oral hygiene habits early is essential in preventing cavities. Help children keep their teeth healthy by starting daily routines even before their first tooth comes in.

Here are ways to promote good oral health:

You may start gently cleaning your child's mouth before their teeth come in. Clean your baby's gums with your finger wrapped in moist gauze or soft cloth after each feeding. This serves two purposes: it removes plaque and residual food off gums and gets them used to the sensation of brushing their teeth when they get old enough.

As soon as the first tooth comes in, start cleaning gently with a wash cloth or a rubber finger toothbrush and take your child for a check-up with a dentist. Usually, nothing is needed on the first visit but the dentist can detect problems early, provide important advice and familiarize your child with the dentist's office.

Start introducing a small toothbrush once your child is able to handle a spoon. Assist and supervise with brushing until they can properly and safely do it themselves, preferably until they are around six or seven years old. Be cautious about giving toothpaste to kids under two years old. Ask the dentist for recommendations which brands to use.

Brush your teeth with your children so they can observe and model after you. Have fun doing it together. Once they've mastered the skill in brushing, introduce flossing. Flossing helps clean surfaces between teeth and under the gums that brush bristles cannot reach. Brushing and flossing are important habits to develop early and keep for a lifetime.

For questions, please contact the 36th Medical Operations Squadron dental flight
at 366-6750.