Healthy gums are a foundation for good oral health. You need to start taking care of your child's gums at the earliest possible. This will help to prevent gum disease and even heart disease in future.

Start Early

Even before the teeth appear, clean the gums with a warm damp cloth or sanitary gauze. This helps to keep away bacteria and soothe gums during teething. You should do this at least twice a day. Later when your baby begins to eat solids, clean his gums after every meal.

Once your baby's teeth appear, use an infant toothbrush and approved fluoride toothpaste to clean his teeth. A tiny dot the size of a grain of rice will do. You do not want your kid swallowing toothpaste.

Teach Good Oral Habits

Do not let your baby sleep with the bottle in his mouth. The sugars in the milk can eat away the enamel and cause a condition called "bottle mouth". Symptoms of this condition include pits and discoloration on front teeth. At bedtime, give him water instead of milk.

Once the teeth have properly formed, you can start flossing. Use a wide dental tape if your baby's teeth have gaps between them.

At age 2, teach your kid to spit out the toothpaste. Do not give him water as this will make it easier for him to swallow the toothpaste. At 3 years of age, your toddler can use pea-sized toothpaste.

Teach your kids to brush at least twice a day, and to floss regularly. Watch them as they brush and floss and gently guide them.

Use fluoride toothpaste as this helps to toughen the enamel. Consult your dentist before using fluoride supplements

Avoid sugary foods, including medicines. Have your kids rinse their mouths after taking sweets, sugary foods and medicines.

Visit the Dentist

From his first birthday, take your child along to the family dentistry. This will help him get used to the idea.

The dentist will give you advice on brushing and flossing. He will also be able to make an early diagnosis of any problem and help prevent problems such as cavities. It would be a good idea to take him to a pediatric dentist.

Once permanent teeth have formed, you can have your dentist apply a sealant on the molars to prevent the formation of cavities.

Good oral hygiene in children starts early in life. A routine of regular brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist will keep your kid's gums healthy.

Keep Health Generally in Good Shape

Remember that a healthy mouth is just one indicator of a healthy child. Keep your pediatric services provider in the loop so that they can provide health education and checkup services to keep your child healthy. Let them in on any oral health issues, as they could also point to things your doctor could do differently to improve your child's health. 

For more information, contact companies like Willow Oak Pediatrics.

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