The 5 most common mistakes parents make with their children's teeth
From the night-time bottle to waiting for pain: five widespread habits that put little smiles at risk — and how to fix them.
1. Bottles and sugary drinks
Milk, fruit juices and other sugary drinks, especially before sleep, can cause so-called 'bottle decay': sugar stays on the teeth all night, when saliva flow is reduced.
Water is best! If the bottle is needed to fall asleep, fill it with water only and get your child used to brushing before, not after.
2. Waiting too long for the first dental visit
Check-ups from age 3 help prevent problems and make children more relaxed with the dentist. Getting to know the clinic when everything is fine is the best way not to be afraid when a small treatment is needed.
3. Brushing only once all teeth have come in
Oral hygiene must start as soon as the first tooth appears: a damp gauze or a tiny toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste. This way children learn from the very start to look after their smile and the routine becomes natural.
4. Ignoring decay in baby teeth
Cavities in baby teeth must not be underestimated: they can cause pain, difficulty eating and affect the development of the permanent teeth growing underneath. Baby teeth matter and need treating!
5. Waiting for pain
There's no need to wait for pain or other symptoms to bring your child to the dentist. When a tooth hurts, the decay is already deep and treatment takes longer. Prevention helps avoid bigger problems — and harder visits.
Recognise any of these mistakes? No guilt: you can change from tomorrow. Call us at 051 814000 and let's book a calm check-up.
Questions about your child's teeth?
Call us: the first visit is a game, fear-free and no strings attached.
