Fun Teeth Facts

Did the tooth fairy visit your house as a child? Does she visit your child?

I found this fun website I want to share with you. Want to know how much the tooth fairy leaves for those precious baby teeth? The legend of the tooth fairy can help ease what can be a frightening transition from baby teeth to adult teeth.  Visit the tooth fairy poll and find out how much the tooth fairy leaves now and how much she used to leave for a tooth. Want to know about the legend? Or what other countries and cultures do when their little ones lose a tooth? Visit the legend page and learn all kinds of interesting facts about fairies and other mythical creatures.

Kids Mouth Health

Starting a healthy routine with your little one begins right away. Wiping the gums with a soft cloth, or using a baby safe gum massager at least once a day. This prevents accumulation of milk or formula residue. It will also get your child used to the habit of oral hygiene daily. As soon as the first teeth erupt brushing begins with water or a baby toothpaste. In an area like Amherstburg where the water is not fluoridated and if mom and dad have a history of cavities I recommend use of less than a rice sized amount of regular fluoridated toothpaste. Please don’t allow your toddler to “toddle” with a toothbrush in their mouth. Consider purchasing an infant safe brush like the banana brush or a safety brush pictured below to prevent injury and allow for easy use. As soon as there are two teeth next to one another flossing should begin.

To p Infant safe toothbrush

Floss sticks are ideal for kids and easy for parents to use. Avoid sharing toothbrushes, utensils with your baby and don’t “clean” a pacifier with your mouth. The bacteria that causes decay is transmissible from adult to child.

I know it’s difficult and children often don’t cooperate but you as a parent are responsible for their teeth. Helping them to prevent painful or traumatic dental problems is paramount. A few tears will not hurt them, a cavity or a filling will probably will. Trust me eventually they know that you are not going to let them get away without brushing and they will start to take part in the routine. Use a song or a video, even an app like Brusheez tooth timer can help make it fun.

Diet Do’s and Don’ts

Stages of baby bottle decay.

A babies diet is also key to preventing decay. Don’t put your child to bed with a bottle or carry around a sippy cup of anything other than water. Milk is for mealtimes it also contains sugar called lactose that will contribute to decay if they drink it all day. Fruit juice or drinks are not recommended and pop should not be introduced to babies. These sugars in a liquid form are ideal fuel for decay causing bacteria. Decay is preventable and your dental professional can help.

First Dental Visit

Your babies first visit to a dental professional should take place between one and two. We want to ease your child into the necessary routine of assessment and professional cleanings. Check out our No Charge Little Smiles Visit for kids under five. Watch our website for workshops and other helpful hints on how to keep your little ones smiling. Don’t forget I’m here for advice ask me anything I want to help! 519-736-1100 or email🙂 Jen