Atlas Smiles Dental, Dentist in Wheelers Hill

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Children should start brushing their teeth as soon as their first tooth comes through, usually around six months of age. You can use a soft cloth or a soft toothbrush with water to clean your baby’s teeth. From 18 months of age, you can use a pea-sized amount of low-fluoride toothpaste and a small, soft toothbrush to brush your child’s teeth twice a day.

It is recommended that children visit the dentist for the first time when their first tooth appears, or by their first birthday. This way, the dentist can check that their teeth are developing correctly and provide advice on how to care for them. Children should see the dentist regularly, usually every six to 12 months, even if they have no problems with their teeth.

The main causes of tooth decay and gum disease are plaque and bacteria that build up on the teeth and gums. To prevent these problems, children should brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss their teeth daily, and avoid sugary foods and drinks. Tap water that contains fluoride is also beneficial for strengthening the teeth and preventing decay. Children should also have a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, lean meats, and whole grains.

Some of the signs and symptoms of dental problems in children include: pain or sensitivity in the teeth or gums, bleeding or swollen gums, bad breath, difficulty chewing or swallowing, loose or broken teeth, discoloured or stained teeth, and white spots or lines on the teeth. If your child has any of these signs or symptoms, you should take them to the dentist as soon as possible.

Depending on the condition and needs of your child, there are different types of dental treatments available for children. Some of the common dental treatments include: fillings, crowns, extractions, root canal therapy, braces, implants, and whitening. Your dentist will explain the options and costs of the treatments and help you to make the best decision for your child’s oral health.

Brushing your teeth is an important habit that helps you keep your teeth and gums healthy. It can also prevent bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. You can help your child to brush their teeth by following these tips: 

• Start early. You can start cleaning your child’s teeth as soon as their first tooth comes through, usually around six months of age. You can use a soft cloth or a soft toothbrush with water to gently wipe their teeth and gums. This will help them get used to the feeling of brushing and make it easier for them to accept it later on.
• Choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste. You should use a small, soft toothbrush that fits your child’s mouth and has a comfortable handle. You should also use a low-fluoride toothpaste that is suitable for your child’s age. The Australian Dental Association recommends a rice-sized smear for children ages 0 to 3 years and a pea-sized amount for children ages 3 and up. You can let your child choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste from a range of colours and flavours to make it more fun and appealing.
• Brush twice a day. You should brush your child’s teeth twice a day, in the morning and before bed. You should also help them floss once a day, preferably at night. You can use a flossing stick or a floss holder to make it easier for them to reach between their teeth.
• Show them how. You can teach your child how to brush their teeth by showing them how you do it. You can also use a mirror to help them see where they are brushing and what they are doing. You can use a simple technique, such as moving the toothbrush in small circles on the front, back, and top of each tooth. You can also sing a song or recite a rhyme to help them remember the steps.
• Guide them. You should supervise and assist your child until they are able to brush their teeth properly on their own, usually around 8 years of age. You can guide their hand and help them reach all the areas of their mouth. You can also check their teeth after they finish and praise them for their effort.
• Make it fun. You can make brushing your teeth a fun and enjoyable activity for your child by using games, rewards, and incentives. For example, you can use a timer or an app to help them brush for the recommended two minutes. You can also use stickers, charts, or rewards to track their progress and motivate them to keep up the good work. You can also read books, watch videos, or play with toys that teach them about dental hygiene and oral health.

By following these tips, you can help your child to brush their teeth and develop a lifelong habit of good oral hygiene. You can also take your child to the dentist regularly, at least once every six months, to check their teeth and gums and get professional advice and treatment 

 Some fun toothbrushes for children are: 

• Colgate Hum Kids Smart Battery Powered Toothbrush: This toothbrush uses an augmented reality game to guide kids through brushing and reward them for doing well. It also has a built-in timer and an app that allows parents to track their kids’ progress.
• Philips Sonicare Kids Rechargeable Toothbrush: This toothbrush has a rechargeable battery and a Bluetooth connection that syncs with a free app that teaches kids how to brush properly and motivates them with rewards and challenges. It also comes with eight stickers that let kids customize their brush.
• Quip Kids Electric Toothbrush: This toothbrush has a sleek design and a gentle vibration that cleans the teeth effectively. It also has a subscription service that delivers fresh brush heads, toothpaste, and batteries every three months. It also comes with a travel cover that doubles as a mirror mount.
• DADA-TECH Baby Electric Toothbrush: This toothbrush is designed for toddlers and has a soft silicone brush head that massages the gums and cleans the teeth. It also has a cute animal shape and a colorful LED light that attracts the kids’ attention. It also plays music and sounds to make brushing fun.
• Arm & Hammer Kid’s Spinbrush Electric Toothbrush: This toothbrush is battery-operated and has a spinning head that removes plaque and cleans the teeth. It also has a variety of designs featuring popular characters, such as Paw Patrol, Spider-Man, and Frozen.

 Some natural toothpastes for children are: 

• Colgate Hum Kids Smart Battery Powered Toothpaste: This toothpaste uses an augmented reality game to guide kids through brushing and reward them for doing well. It also has a built-in timer and an app that allows parents to track their kids’ progress.
• Grin Natural Toothpaste Gels: These toothpaste gels are made with natural ingredients and zero nasties, making them safe for babies as young as six months. They also come in four delicious flavours, such as strawberry and watermelon, that kids will love.
• Jack N’ Jill Natural Baby Toothpaste: This toothpaste is fluoride, SLS and sugar-free, and suitable for babies as young as six months of age. It also contains certified organic ingredients, such as xylitol and calendula, and comes in a fun range of natural flavours, such as banana and raspberry.
• Weleda Children’s Tooth Gel: This tooth gel is designed to maintain the natural balance of the mouth and protect the teeth and gums. It also has a mild minty flavour that kids will enjoy, and is free of artificial sweeteners, surfactants and preservatives
• Chicco Baby and Kids’ Toothpaste: This toothpaste is extra gentle for new teeth and gums, and has a low-abrasive formula that nurtures the enamel and tissue. It also comes in three tasty flavours, such as apple-banana and strawberry, and is preservative-free.