Por Dra. Camila, Cirurgiã-Dentista
1. When should I start brushing my child’s teeth?
It’s recommended to start brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a soft toothbrush and water. Starting at two years old, you can start using a small amount of fluoride toothpaste.
2. How many times a day should I brush my child’s teeth?
Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day: once in the morning and once before bed. Ideally, three times a day is recommended. Be sure to brush all of your child’s teeth and tongue to remove bacteria and food debris.
3. Which toothpaste is best for children?
Use a fluoride toothpaste appropriate for your child’s age. For children under 3, a rice-grain-sized amount of toothpaste is sufficient. For older children, a pea-sized amount is appropriate.
4. When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?
The first dental visit should occur as soon as the first tooth erupts or around the child’s first birthday. The dentist can help ensure that the teeth are growing correctly and provide advice on dental care.
5. How can I help my child develop good dental hygiene habits?
Create a brushing routine and use a timer to ensure brushing lasts two minutes. Make the process fun with colorful toothbrushes and toothpastes with pleasant flavors. Also, model good habits by brushing your own teeth in front of your child.
6. What should I do if my child has a toothache?
If your child has a toothache, schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can offer soft foods and avoid very hot or cold foods that can aggravate the pain. Do not use adult medications without consulting a healthcare professional.
7. How important is it to use dental floss?
Flossing helps remove plaque and food debris from between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Starting at age 2, you can start flossing in addition to daily brushing to help maintain your child’s oral health.
8. When will my child’s baby teeth start to fall out?
Baby teeth usually begin to fall out around age 6, when permanent teeth begin to erupt. It’s a natural process, and it can take a few years for all baby teeth to be replaced by permanent teeth.
9. How can I prevent tooth decay in my child?
In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, limit your child’s consumption of sugary foods and drinks. Encourage your child to drink water after meals to help flush out food debris. Additionally, regular dental visits can help identify problems before they become serious.
10. Are dental sealants recommended for children?
Yes, dental sealants can help protect teeth from cavities. They are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth and are especially recommended for children who are still learning to brush properly.