Tips for Maintaining Healthy Teeth from Infants to Adults

It is very important for oral health to be made a priority throughout life. An unhealthy mouth and teeth (poor oral hygiene) can contribute to health problems that extend beyond the mouth, and you obviously want to avoid that at all costs.

Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy mouth and teeth from infants to adults:

Infants

– When new teeth come in, they should be cleaned everyday. Brush with an extra soft infant toothbrush and just a smear of kids toothpaste, as they will not be able to spit yet.

– Avoid leaving a bottle of juice or milk with your baby at night. If this sits on their teeth, it could cause cavities.

– Take them for regular dental visits starting at one year old or when they get their first tooth – whichever comes first.

Read more: Common Questions About Baby Teeth

Kids

– Ensure they are brushing at least twice a day. Read more: Tips to Make Brushing Teeth Fun for Kids.

– Provide low-sugar snacks to get them in the habit of healthy eating. If the kitchen is full of apples instead of chocolate bars, they will have the apple.

– Avoid giving them hard and sticky candies that can damage and stick to the teeth.

– Get them in the habit of drinking water vs. soda.

– Ensure that they understand the importance of good dental care.

– Take them to a kids dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup.

Teens

– Brush at least twice a day / floss once a day.

– Teach them the dangers of smoking, which can lead to stained teeth and cancer.

– Ensure they have protective gear while playing contact sports.

– Do they have crooked teeth? Make an appointment with an orthodontist to find out your options. One of the best gifts you can give your child is straight teeth. Even if they give pushback to the idea, they will be sure to appreciate this later in life. If they have mild misalignment issues, they may also be good candidates for Invisalign.

– Take them to the dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup.

Adults

– Brush at least twice a day / floss once a day.

– Don’t smoke or chew tobacco.

– Check with your doctor when they prescribe new medication to ensure it will not negatively affect your teeth.

– Check regularly for sores, inflamed gums, or other changes in your mouth that are causing concern. It is always better to be safe than sorry!

– Want straighter teeth without getting metal braces? Ask your dentist about Invisalign.

– Visit the dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup.

Consult with your dentist if you have any issues with your mouth or questions about dental hygiene.