Life

Ask the expert: Milk teeth truths

It's important to teach your child good dental hygiene habits early in life
It's important to teach your child good dental hygiene habits early in life It's important to teach your child good dental hygiene habits early in life

ASK THE EXPERT

Q: "Why do I need to encourage my child to look after his baby teeth when they'll fall out eventually anyway?"

A: Dentist Dr Henry Clover, chief dental officer for Denplan, says: "While it's true that children will eventually lose their primary (baby) teeth, some may not fall out until they're around 12 years old, so they do need over a decade's worth of care.

"Childhood tooth decay doesn't have to be inevitable and there are several techniques parents can help their child to adopt to prevent it.

"Actively controlling a child's sugar intake helps them establish good habits for the future. Just beware of hidden sugars found in things like dried fruit, fruit roll-ups, smoothies and fruit juices.

"Limiting children's sugar intake and encouraging them to brush their teeth routinely can help to protect young teeth from both decay and acid wear. But beware: tooth enamel is softer for up to an hour after eating or drinking sugary or acidic things, and can be damaged if teeth are brushed straight after eating. Instead, encourage children to brush their teeth before they eat breakfast, or at least an hour after dinner.

"Taking children for regular dental check-ups is another essential part of caring for young teeth. Take children for their first dental visit as soon as their first tooth appears. Regular appointments allow the dentist to check for health complaints and see if any areas are being missed through brushing ineffectively.

"Try to get children to reach the vital two-minute brushing time, and teach them the importance of cleaning their teeth as soon as their first milk teeth appear. Good habits last a lifetime."

:: For a brushing guide, visit Denplan.co.uk