Children's dental care

Dominique Tillen looks beyond ‘brush twice a day’.

While there is much talk about children’s dental care this is often to the exclusion of younger members, particularly babies and toddlers. However, children who have learned to care for their teeth properly from a very young age are more likely to develop good oral hygiene habits that will continue as their adult teeth develop, and remain for the rest of their lives.

Though it is now recommended in the UK verylittle specific advice is available for infant and toddler oral care. Indeed, many dental health professionals report being at a loss as what to recommend.

Acknowledging different needs

The dentition of under-fives is developing through phases of toothless gums, teething and on to a full set of baby teeth. Each phase requires specific oral care to meet the developing dentition, behaviour and skills of the infant and young child. Recognition of this is important to help establish a more appropriate oral care routine and the use of products beyond the conventional toothbrush.