Tooth decay
The main cause of tooth decay is an acid attack on the surfaces of the teeth. This acid is produced by bacteria that cling to the surface of the teeth in a film called dental plaque. Sweet, sticky, sugary foods encourage the plaque to make acid that causes tooth decay and bleeding gums.
Cleaning teeth
Children need to learn how to clean their teeth. Start off by giving your baby a small toothbrush as a toy - bath time is a good time. Start to clean your baby’s teeth as soon as they appear. Use a small, soft toothbrush and water. When the child is older, introduce small amounts of junior fluoride toothpaste onto the brush. Just put a small wipe of toothpaste on the brush. It is best that your child cleans their teeth the last thing before bed.
It is hard for children under ten to clean their teeth properly. You will need to help at least once a day. If the bacteria have been on the teeth for a long time, the gums may bleed when brushed. This gingivitis tells you that the gums are unhealthy. To get them healthy again the gums need to be cleaned more often, even if they bleed when brushed.
Dental floss
You may need to clean between your child’s teeth with dental floss. Ask your dentist how to use the floss properly.
When to visit the dentist
Take your child to the dentist regularly, starting from about one year of age. Going to the dentist is safe and saves money in the long run.
Tips to prevent dental disease
Here are some tips to prevent decay and sore gums for children:
• Avoid putting infants and young children down with a bottle. Always ensure feeding has ceased before your child goes to sleep to avoid early infant tooth decay.
• Drink fluoridated tap water every day. If you are not sure if your local water is fluoridated, check with your local council.
• Avoid eating sugary sticky foods, especially between meals.
• Avoid sweet drinks and juices, especially between meals.
• Give your child foods that make them chew.
• Brush twice a day - after breakfast and before bed (use a small toothbrush and a small amount of fluoridated, junior toothpaste).
• If there’s no brush, rinse with water.
• Use dental floss daily fro