You cannot underestimate the role of the parents in good dental care for children. Just as for adults, City of Leeds dentist recommend regular check ups for children, ranging from between every three to six months, starting even before the teeth have begun to emerge. But it is the parents’ actions at home that will have the biggest impact on the dental health of their children. And furthermore, it is not just in the short term but the care you provide for your child’s oral health can affect their teeth for the rest of their lives.

Dentists are always on hand to give new parents advice on how best to look after their children’s teeth. Good oral care begins before the teeth have even begun to emerge. After all, good oral care is about more than just teeth. Our gums are equally as important and they are there form birth. Parents should wipe their children’s gums clean after feeding using a damp cloth. This will help to prevent a build up of bacteria. This should continue when the first teeth start to emerge before the dentist advises that it is ok to start brushing the teeth.

Keeping regular check up appointments means that you will never be in any doubt as to when it is ok to start the next stage of good oral care. As your child gets slightly older and is able to clean their own teeth it is very important that you try to teach them good habits. Good cleaning techniques will last a lifetime, as will the idea that looking after the teeth is very crucial. Never try and force your child to brush their teeth as this may cause resentment and lead to further dental problems. Instead, try and make it a game or even reward your child for doing it well.

As with all things in life, good oral hygiene is about good education in the developing stages. Learning the importance of dental health early will give your child the best chance of avoiding painful and unpleasant dental conditions in the future, and surely every parent wants that for their child.