Pediatric oral care tips from your dentist in Laguna Niguel

Nothing warms your heart like a big smile on your little one's face, but keeping that smile happy and healthy can be a serious challenge. Regular dental care is vital, but it is only part of the recipe for a healthy smile. At home care and daily habits are important right now, and can lay the foundation for future oral health.

Here are a few tip for keeping your child's mouth healthy:

• Oral hygiene comes before teeth – An infant's gums should be cleaned gently, with a damp, soft cloth.
  
  
• When to brush – As soon as a tooth appears, it needs to be brushed. Be sure that you choose a soft brush, with a head small enough to fit the contours of your baby's mouth.
  
  
• Avoid baby bottle decay – If you give your baby a bottle at naptime, fill it with plain water. Sugar-containing liquids, including milk and fruit juice, promote tooth decay.
  
  
• Team effort – When your child is old enough to begin brushing his or her own teeth, it is important to help and supervise until the technique is perfected.
  
  
• Foods to be wary of – It is advisable to avoid excess sweets and processed starches, which encourage the development of harmful bacteria, leading to decay. Acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus or sports drinks, soften tooth enamel.
  
  
• Smart snacking – Some foods are good for teeth. These include cheese, raisins, sugar-free candy, crunchy veggies such as celery, and foods rich in vitamins.
  
  
• Play it safe – If your child participates in sports activities, be sure that he or she wears the appropriate safety gear, including a custom-made mouth guard.
  
  
• Practice good oral hygiene for parents, too – Something as simple as your baby touching your mouth or you blowing on his or her food can transfer oral bacteria. Therefore, keeping your own mouth clean and healthy can help protect your little one.

Drs. Alex and Nina Basti welcome patients from age two and older. Patient education is an important part of our service. Please call 949-427-2096 to schedule your appointment today.