For the dental health of Kids

At the first appointment, the dentist will put your child at ease, examine and clean his teeth.

It’s reported that half of the population are scared of going to the dentist. It is important for parents not to transmit this fear to their child. Positive attitude will reassure him and determine his attitude and cooperation in the treatment room. Therefore, your collaboration as a parent is very important before, during and after the visit.

Before the first visit

• Explain briefly what the dentist will be doing (checking and counting the teeth, etc) and avoid words such as “pain”, “hurt”, “needle”, because they trigger fear.

During the visit

• You may be asked to return to the waiting room once the initial contact is made.
• Listen to the instructions and suggestions given by the dentist for a better cooperation.
• Keep a positive attitude about the appointment at all times.

After the visit

• Make sure that your child brushes his/her teeth at least twice a day or after each meal.
• Floss his or her teeth once a day.
• Monitor what your child eats and offer sugarless and non-sticky foods.

Till age ten, brush, help or monitor your child brushing and flossing.

The sugary drinks and food we consume change into acid on contact with the bacteria naturally present in our saliva. The acid wears away our tooth enamel and cavities eventually form on our teeth.

Unfortunately, many nutritious drinks and food contain natural sugar, which is equally damaging to our teeth. For example, milk, fruit juice and most starchy foods (crackers, teething biscuits, etc.) break down into sugar. If these foods remain in our mouth long enough, they transform into acid. Naturally, you cannot cut these foods out of your children’s diet entirely since they contain vitamins and nutrients essential for good growth.

Generally speaking, to limit the damage caused by sugar, your role is to carefully watch what your children are eating and supervise how often they brush their teeth. This means taking the time to read the list of ingredients on each product label before putting it in your grocery cart. Foods that contain corn, corn syrup or maple syrup, honey, molasses, fructose, glucose or dextrose-based sweeteners should be used in moderation. Since children love snacks, offer them water rather any other beverages. Nuts, cheese and raw vegetables are excellent options, both in terms of oral health and the general health of your children. Fruit juices, soft drinks and candies should be offered on occasion. Careful tooth brushing is advised after eating.