THREE THINGS THE DENTIST WANTS YOU TO KNOW

1. Probably the worst thing that parents do for little teeth is giving children sugary drinks to help them fall asleep. The continuous use of a bottle filled with milk, sugar water, sweetened drinks or juice can lead to a condition called “baby bottle syndrome”. This is when the front teeth emerge, already softened with rotten patches because of the continuous exposure to the sweetened drinks. If your child has to drink at night, plain water is best. Also remove the bottle so that baby doesn’t sip on it all night. Try your best to get rid of that pesky night bottle as soon as you can, by 12 to 15 months at least.

2. Adult toothpaste is not suitable for children. Before the age of four, children should use toothpaste without fluoride. When toddlers ingest too much fluoride – they can’t help but swallow the toothpaste – this can lead to white stains developing on the teeth. If you do choose fluoride toothpaste, make sure you only use a tiny amount – about the size of a pea is enough. And fluoride pills? Check with your dentist first, as fluoride levels differ from town to town, and your child’s diet might also be providing ample fluoride.

3. One of the best things you can do to ensure future dental health is to take your child to the dentist even when there’s nothing wrong. This ensures that future visits are nothing to be nervous about. Begin as soon as the first tooth appears, and every six months after that.