Questions Answered- Your Child’s Dental Care

At Chinook Mall Family Clinic we feel privileged to serve so many families and watch children grow. Being knowledgeable in how to care for your child’s teeth is our job and we want to pass this important information onto you. Here are 5 frequently asked questions.

Question 1: At what age should I bring my child to the dentist?

Answer: Once they start popping teeth! Ideally your child should start to regulraily see the denist from the age of 12 months. The dentist will perform a quick check of your child’s mouth to make sure that everything is developing normally. Yearly checkups will be recommended if everything looks good and is developing as should be. Getting them in early benefits the child by getting them use to visiting the dentist from a young age. The dentist may recommend twice annual visits if your child has needed fillings in the past, if they have experienced trauma or developmental abnormalities that need monitoring or as they get into their teenage years.

Question 2: What should I do if my child experiences a trauma such as banging their mouth/teeth?

Answer: It happens, more often than any parent would like. Promptly booking an appointment to have your dentist check your child’s teeth is imperative even if there is not any obvious  injury – this is applicable for children of any age but especially if your child already has a few of their adult teeth. Usually there is no serious damage but as a precautionary measure it is best to book your child in to see the dentist. It is also recommended that your child is booked to see a dentist if you notice one of their teeth has darkened or changed color.

Question 3: Can my child use normal toothpaste when brushing?

Answer: No! It is recommended that children do not use fluoridated toothpaste until age 3. Earlier than that, clean your child’s teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. After age 3, parents should supervise brushing. Use no more than a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and make sure children do not swallow excess toothpaste.Your child needs to use age-appropriate toothpaste. Check the packaging of toothpastes to see the recommended age of use. There are many toothpastes specifically formulated for children ages 0-5.

Question 4: What toothbrush should my child use?

Answer: With so many toothbrushes on the market, it can be confusing when buying your child a toothbrush. And children are quick to reach for their favorite cartoon character, princess or color!  Look for the age guidelines on the toothbrush packaging before purchasing. Very young children require soft-bristle toothbrushes that are much smaller in size than regular toothbrushes so choose a brush appropriate to your child’s age. No matter their age, your children’s toothbrush should fit comfortably in their mouths and be easy to hold and manipulate.

Question 5: How can I get my child to brush their teeth?

Answer: From a young age you need to get your child used to the concept of brushing their teeth. Give your toddler a toothbrush to play with. They will most-likely chew on it and this will get them accustomed to the idea of brushing. Help your child brush their teeth by showing them how to do it. If they are already brushing independently, make sure you still watch them brush their teeth or brush your teeth at the same time so that you know it is getting done properly. You can find many helpful instructional videos on brushing teeth for children. Many children’s books are geared also towards healthy brushing and oral habits. Remember to make it fun!

At your child’s check up at our Chinook Mall Dental Office, we are happy to go over any and all information pertaining to the health of their teeth and gums.  Dr. Charchuk wants to see your child’s smile healthy and address any problems early on.  Please contact us today to discuss your child’s oral health.