This archive report was first published on 17 July 2021.
As a parent, it's natural to have questions about your child's teeth. When should you start brushing your child's teeth? How often should they visit the dentist? What causes tooth decay in children? A paediatric dentist answers all these questions and more in this informative article.
According to Dr. Nicholas Gichu, a paediatric dentist, babies should visit a dentist as soon as the first tooth erupts, which is usually around five to six months old. Regular check-ups are essential to prevent dental problems and ensure your child's teeth grow correctly.
Dr. Gichu advises parents to wipe their baby's teeth with clean cotton wool soaked in clean water until they are old enough to use a toothbrush. He recommends introducing toothpaste and a toothbrush when the child is around two years old, using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste with low fluoride concentration.
Teething can be a challenging time for babies, but Dr. Gichu assures parents that it's a normal process. He explains that teething does not cause fever, but the discomfort and pain can be managed with mild painkillers and teething gels.
One of the most common concerns parents have is about dental fluorosis, a condition caused by excessive fluoride consumption. Dr. Gichu warns that dental fluorosis can be fixed with various procedures, but it's essential to detect it early. He recommends breastfeeding for as long as possible and being cautious about the water used to mix formula.
Braces are also a common topic of discussion among parents. Dr. Gichu explains that braces are appliances that straighten teeth if they are malaligned or if there's a poor relationship between the jaws and teeth. He notes that braces can be used in adulthood, but it's essential to address the issue early to prevent more severe problems.
Lastly, Dr. Gichu addresses the issue of infant oral mutilation, a practice where teeth are removed using unsterile instruments to control fever. He emphasizes that this practice is damaging and puts the child at risk of infection.
