Time for the Kids to See the DentistModern mothers increasingly care about their children’s dental health Cleanliness, aesthetics and dental strength are growing concerns. But when is it necessary to set a solid foundation for future dental health?
Dr. Chiraporn Polpibolaya, a dentist with more than 25 years of experience, answers the question and gives tips to reduce the fear of children visiting the dentist.
Normally the first teeth start breaking out six months after delivery; the first two front teeth start to grow, followed by the upper teeth. The rest continue to appear until 20 teeth are reached at the age of two and a half to three years old. The milk teeth are usually completed when children are three to six years old. However, the problem that we are beginning to see more often is that some infants already have teeth since birth, mostly the two lower front teeth. In medical terms, these teeth are called Neonatal Teeth, which are easily rocked and fall out due to incomplete formation; these teeth have short roots. A nursing mother also can feel slight pain during breast feeding, and the baby becomes annoyed, because these teeth interfere with the tongue. In addition, it may actually be harmful because these teeth can easily become loose and aspirated. In such cases, the mother and her infant should immediately consult a dental specialist. Parents should teach their children how to look after their teeth as early as possible. Starting by coiling a piece of gauze around your finger and gently rub the baby's teeth after feeding milk. When the child has grown enough to handle a toothbrush, teach them how to use it right away. Nowadays, many toothbrushes are designed especially for small children. Parents should first let their children watch parents brushing their teeth, and then brush together with the kids. Later children should practice brushing by themselves. After brushing, check whether their teeth are cleaned properly. If they're still not clean enough, just help the kids brush their teeth again." Bringing Your Kids to the Dentist "Bringing children to the dentist must not be a frightening experience at all, because there are so many tricks to distract their attention. For example, the dentist can use a camera to take photos when the kids smile and let them see their teeth after treatment. Thanks to these now-standard procedures, children no longer have to be afraid of the dentist. When children are brought to see the dentist for the first time, they start getting to know each other and probably nothing is done, simply explaining what the instruments are and what they are used for, to let them understand first. Only afterwards will the actual dental problems be dealt with, and how the dentist helps. Then, for the second visit, after they're more familiar with the dentist, they will be asked to have their teeth flossed, or some other procedures which are not painful. And then, for the third, fourth, and subsequent visits, it will be easier to deal with – both for the children and the dentist. However, small gifts may be needed to encourage children at every visit. In cases where children are crying, the dentist can let them play with some toys so that they feel better and realize that the dentist is only helping and caring for them, and will more easily cooperate with the dentist next time. What I would like to see are parents helping to build healthy attitudes in their children towards the dentist, emphasising dentists are there to help. Maybe by saying to them, "Look, seeing the dentist isn't painful at all! The dentist is trying to help you. The dentist is so kind. He/she even has a reward for you. Don’t you want to come and see the dentist again?" By doing so, children will have much better feelings toward their dentist. Subsequent visits will be easier, and the dentist will be able to take care of their teeth easier." "Now I'd like to focus on oral hygiene. When babies are still young and being nursed, parents must help them clean their mouth by rubbing the inside using a piece of gauze coiled around your finger. When the child grows older and has several teeth, a toothbrush suitable for their age can be found. He/She should be taught how to brush their teeth correctly. If the child is afraid it might be painful brushing their teeth, an easier solution is, find some vegetables or fruits for them to chew on, which is another good way to clean the teeth. But most importantly, parents must help their small children brush their teeth until they're 8 years old. And every time after drinking milk, it must be followed by drinking some water, rinsing their mouth, or brushing their teeth in order to remove and avoid plaque build up. Food with plenty of vitamins and calcium should be chosen to build their dentine, and dentist visits should be scheduled at least twice a year, always encouraging positive feelings in taking care of their dental health. Taking care of your children’s dental health teamwork is needed, which includes fathers, mothers, the dentist and the most important, the child." |
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