ABCs of Healthy Kids’ Teeth

by  Amy Sharp

“School is back in session and I firmly believe in the importance of education,” says Fort Bend ISD Foundation Board of Director and dentist at Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental, Dr. Faisal Khan. “I know as parents we put a lot of effort into developing the minds of our little humans. It’s also really important to take care of those little teeth…after all, they’re only one set of baby and ‘big’ teeth”

A – American Dental Association (ADA)

Dr Khan says, “The American Dental Association recommends that parents bring their kids in for a first check up around one year old. Kids that young rarely have anything wrong, so it’s just fun all around. At that age I really spend more time educating the parents about children’s teeth…and for the child, the office and staff become a familiar environment, and that alleviates a lot of what I call ‘crazy screaming dentistry.’”

B – Brushing and Flossing

Dr. Khan says, “Children’s teeth should be brushed at least twice per day using a soft bristled brush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Parents should help them until about age seven or until your child is capable of reaching all areas of the mouth. For babies, remember to rub the gum area with a clean, damp cloth after each feeding. Wherever two teeth are adjacent to each other, kids are at risk for between teeth cavities. I know its hard to teach children to floss…but we have tips on making flossing fun!”

C – Care

Dr. Khan says, “With kids, we are mostly talking about preventive care. That includes preventive care in our office and at home. Here at the office we do full mouth examinations and look for signs of early decay, monitor orthodontic concerns, and track jaw and tooth development. At home, in addition to brushing and flossing, your child should be receiving a nourishing, well balanced diet that’s low in sugar. Prolonged use of pacifiers and sippy cups or extended thumb sucking can also cause oral developmental issues. Our office is here to help parents and kids commit to healthy habits for a life of happy, healthy smiles!”

Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental
Dr. Faisal M. Khan, DDS
832-222-TOTS (8687)
7830 W. Grand Parkway S, Suite 270
Richmond, TX 77406

www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com

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