Tips to keep toddler’s mouth healthy

This lockdown has definitely brought us all closer to our families. Having a child around can be absolutely wonderful, particularly when you can witness all their ‘firsts’.
But, of course, this comes with a lot of responsibility, especially since these times are extraordinary and stepping out can be dangerous. You cannot afford to risk having your child fall ill, in any respect.

Often, oral hygiene is ignored when speaking of general health. A child between the ages one and three is at a nascent stage when it comes to dental development. Here are a few tips to keep up and ensure that you can skip the dentist’s appointment for at least a short while!
A healthy diet

Giving your child a healthy diet is not only imperative to build their immunity but also to keep their mouth healthy. Try giving lesser artificial sugars and more natural sugars (maybe, replace candy with a juicy mango).

Use a toothpaste with less fluoride

A toothpaste with smaller quantities of toothpaste is safer for your toddler. So, even if they accidentally swallow some toothpaste while brushing, they will not fall ill.

Take only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste

Toddlers should use smaller amount of toothpaste while brushing their teeth. As their teeth are still developing, they do not require too much toothpaste. Besides that, their spit and swallow reflexes haven’t completely formed, so it should be safe even if they accidentally swallow toothpaste.

Avoid leaving a bottle in their mouth

Leaving a bottle of juice or milk in their mouth for some time is not a problem, especially if it pacifies them. But, on the contrary, if left in their mouth for too long (like when they sleep) it can cause tooth decay.

Avoid candies

This is an overshared tip, but is just as effective. Avoiding candy can help your toddler have stronger teeth as the sugar in candies, if left behind, can lead to a range of dental problems like cavities and tooth decay.

Avoid sharing your utensils

There may be cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth that can be transferred to your child. This can happen if your saliva enters your child’s mouth. To avoid this, try not to share any utensils (spoons or forks) that have been in your mouth. Besides that, do not share your toothbrush or put your mouth on any of their sippers or bottles.