Plaque is one of the main concerns in pediatric dentistry. Pediatric dentists aim to prevent the accumulation of plaque on primary and permanent teeth. The absence of plaque leads to a healthy set of dentition. This then leads to a healthy body. If you want to find out how to keep plaque at bay, here are some tips.
Every person has bacteria in the mouth. These microorganisms thrive on sugar. Children love to eat sweets and starchy foods. That is why they are prone to having plaque. This sticky coating leads to the development of cavities. Pediatric dentistry prevention of plaque starts in the home.
Keeping plaque at bay and removing it at the same time needs hard work. This means brushing the child’s teeth three times every day, two minutes each time. It is common for children to brush for under two minutes. Parents should do this task for the child. By the time the child turns nine, parents may still need to supervise. Kids tend to take shortcuts when it comes to brushing.
Another pediatric dentistry tip is holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle at the child’s gumline. This can help strip off more of the plaque. Brushing in a circular and gentle motion is also an efficient way to remove the stubborn biofilm. Choosing a toothbrush with the appropriate size can help clean the child’s mouth better. An electric toothbrush is also a better option. Choose one that has a timer and rotary action.
Sugar is the main source of sustenance for bacteria. It is only proper for parents to cut down sugar intake at home. Kids can also get sugars from bread, pasta, and rice. Parents should also lower the amount of starch in the family meals. That way, bacteria will not have enough to thrive inside the child’s mouth. This can prevent future pediatric dentistry treatments.
Fluoride is a natural element capable of strengthening teeth and fighting cavities. It is an ingredient in many brands of toothpaste. By two years old, children can use fluoride toothpaste. Helping them brush with a little fluoride toothpaste for two minutes can help remove plaque and protect the teeth from decay.
A pediatric dentist can remove plaque and tartar from the child’s teeth. Pediatric dentistry scaling is an in-office treatment. Scheduling a routine pediatric dentistry cleaning can help remove and ward off plaque. After the cleaning, the pediatric dentist can apply dental sealants to the molars. This liquid barrier can block bacteria and food particles from sticking to the child’s teeth.
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Modifying dental hygiene practices at home can help remove dental plaque. Maintaining routine dental checkups can keep plaque away from your child’s teeth. Diligence when it comes to pediatric dentistry practices tends to improve your child’s dental health. An appointment with your pediatric dentist can enhance the way you keep your child’s teeth plaque-free.
Request an appointment or call Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at 703-391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.
A pediatric dentist is a dental specialist that helps ensure that children are able to keep their baby teeth healthy to avoid any future issues with their permanent teeth. This guide provides information on why baby teeth are important and how to care for them through good oral health.Healthy baby teeth help ensure the proper…
Our pediatric dentist says good oral hygiene for babies starts even before their first tooth erupts. Tooth decay is the most common dental issue that affects children, and acids created by oral bacteria cause it.A child’s first tooth should erupt by the time they are six months old, and it is typically an upper incisor.…
Dental exams from the pediatric dentist are necessary to keep your child's dental health on track. The primary (baby) teeth of your child prepare the way for their permanent teeth. According to the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should see a dentist when their first teeth emerge or…
A pediatric dentist is a dental specialist that helps ensure that children are able to keep their baby teeth healthy to avoid any future issues with their permanent teeth. This guide provides information on why baby teeth are important and how to care for them through good oral health.Healthy baby teeth help ensure the proper…
Our pediatric dentist says good oral hygiene for babies starts even before their first tooth erupts. Tooth decay is the most common dental issue that affects children, and acids created by oral bacteria cause it.A child’s first tooth should erupt by the time they are six months old, and it is typically an upper incisor.…