You are currently viewing Big Smiles: Good Dental Care Starts At Birth

Building bright smiles begins with good dental care from birth.

It’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, which reminds us that to build strong, healthy teeth in our children, we must start a dental care routine from an early age – right from birth!

did you know?

The 2022 WHO Global Oral Health Status Report reveals that 3.5 billion individuals worldwide suffer from oral diseases, with around two billion people grappling with permanent teeth cavities globally – of these, 514 million are children dealing with cavities in their primary teeth.

“Considering these staggering numbers, the importance of prevention is important. And should begin before the first tooth even comes out. Parents need to invest in their children’s dental care and instil early habits to ensure a foundation for bright, healthy smiles,” says Lizeth Kruger, Dis-Chem Baby City’s national clinic executive.

tips and advice for good dental care

Kruger offers some advice and tips for parents to ensure their little one’s dental care starts on the right path and becomes an entrenched routine.

an early start is the right start

Make a habit of running a clean, damp washcloth over your baby’s gums to clear away harmful bacteria before the first tooth comes out. Thereafter use a soft baby toothbrush and mild toothpaste.

Research shows that young children, especially those in preschool, are more susceptible to oral health issues, making it crucial to establish a positive dental care routine from the beginning.

make brushing fun

Transform toothbrushing into an exciting adventure by choosing vibrant colours for your child’s toothbrush, opting for playful toothpaste flavours and incorporating favourite tunes. The key is to make the daily dental care routine a positive and enjoyable experience.

Find more tips on toothbrushing here.

routine always matters

Establishing a consistent morning and bedtime brushing routine is vital. Parents play a crucial role in supervising and instilling these habits early on to ensure they continue into adulthood.

empower them with the right knowledge

Educating your child about the ‘why’ behind good dental care and oral hygiene will empower them to take charge of their dental health. Understanding how brushing and flossing prevent cavities and gum diseases and how certain foods impact their dental health will empower them to take care of their teeth.

Teaching young children how to brush their teeth properly and how long the process should take is also as important to keep the cavities away.

good diet keeps the dentist away

A well-rounded, nutritious diet is essential for sustaining optimal dental health throughout one’s lifetime. Insufficient nutrients can compromise your child’s teeth and gums, making them vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease and hindering the mouth’s ability to fight off infections gingivitis and gum disease.

Steer away from giving your child sugary snacks and drinks as these contribute to children’s tooth decay.

Find out more about dental health and beneficial foods.

“Early preventive dental care plays a vital role in fostering good oral hygiene routines for life. A child’s dental health is not just about having a radiant smile today; it represents a lasting investment in their future wellbeing. It is much easier to prevent oral problems than to correct problems that have gone untreated,” Kruger concludes.