How the Basics of Oral Hygiene Are Vital for Healthy Teeth

In order to maintain your child's healthy teeth and gums, you should follow the oral hygiene basics recommended by a pediatric dentist. These practices, including brushing and flossing, should be done twice and once a day, respectively. However, it is common for children to forget to maintain these habits. Failing to observe oral hygiene basics can have severe consequences for your child's teeth. If they do not care for their teeth, they may lose them. Read further to learn the importance of teaching your child oral hygiene basics at home.

Why your child needs to learn how to care for their teeth

Once your child's adult teeth come in, they will have to care for that set of teeth for the rest of their life. Unfortunately, time and daily use can take a gradual toll. Every time a child eats, bacteria enter their mouth. These bacteria feed on their teeth and can cause cavities and infections.

The good news is that practicing oral hygiene basics, such as regular brushing and flossing, can prevent significant damage to your child's mouth. These habits also contribute to better cosmetic outcomes.

Avoid tooth loss

When bacteria cause your child to develop cavities, it is important to get them filled as soon as possible to prevent tooth loss. Delaying treatment can lead to more extensive dental procedures, which can be costly, especially if the problem is not addressed as soon as possible.

Help them maintain a bright smile

Many foods can stain your child’s teeth:

• Tomato-based sauces.
• Soy sauce.
• Berries.
• Soda.
• Tea (i.e., green tea).
• Dark-colored fruit juices (e.g., blueberry, cranberry, and grape).

Over time, these stains become more noticeable, and your child's teeth may appear yellow or even brown. While dentists offer whitening treatments, it is easier and more cost-effective to prevent children from staining their teeth in the first place.

Regular brushing is essential to prevent staining because it helps remove food residue. People can also find whitening toothpaste designed for children to help maintain a brighter smile.

Prevent bad breath

Bacteria is the primary cause of bad breath. While mints or mint-flavored gum can temporarily mask the odor, brushing and flossing treat the root cause of a child’s bad breath. Help your child keep up with their oral hygiene habits and make sure they use the proper techniques to brush, floss, and rinse their teeth.

How oral hygiene basics keep your child’s teeth healthy

When children brush twice a day, in the morning and at night, it helps remove food particles, bacteria, and a film of residue called plaque. Flossing reaches the smaller particles wedged between their teeth often missed by toothbrush bristles. While it is still important for your child to see a pediatric dentist at least twice a year for a more thorough cleaning and check-up, these simple practices can protect their teeth in-between visits.

Prevents plaque build-up

When plaque builds up, it hardens into tartar, which is tougher to remove. The accumulation of tartar may interfere with a child's oral hygiene practices. This interference creates a cycle of poor oral care and an increased risk of tooth decay.

Prevents gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. This condition can make a child's gums swollen and painful. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which affects the jawbone. In severe cases, the child may need oral surgery to repair the damage and prevent tooth loss.