Oral health in children: steps to promote proper hygiene and diet

Orlaith Kennedy 

Chief Executive Officer, Dental Health Foundation Ireland 

Poor oral health and tooth decay can negatively impact the growth and development of your child in several ways; not only causing pain but also affecting wellbeing.

Strong baby teeth are a wonderful start to your baby’s overall health. They play a crucial role in how your child learns to chew, talk and have a bright smile.  

Maintaining good oral health in children 

Ensuring optimal oral health in children between the ages of 0 and 5 is vital. Implementing and practising good oral hygiene habits during these formative years is crucial for their overall wellbeing. By following a few key practices, parents can help maintain their child’s dental health.  

Firstly, as babies are born with their teeth beneath their gums, it is recommended to start cleaning their mouth even before teeth appear. Gently wiping their gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding helps to remove any residue and promotes healthy gum development.  

Once their first tooth appears, (around 6 months) using a toothbrush designed for infants can aid in effective cleaning. From 2 years, use a pea-sized amount of (1000 ppm) fluoride toothpaste to help protect the teeth. Supervise brushing until age 7, and help your child to spit out toothpaste and avoid swallowing. 

Although baby teeth and adult teeth are made
from the same enamel, it is thinner on baby teeth.

What is tooth decay, and what causes it? 

Tooth decay is caused by bacteria present in the mouth and on teeth and gums. Bacteria thrive on sugars, then form an acid that causes a hole to develop in a tooth over time. Although baby teeth and adult teeth are made from the same enamel, it is thinner on baby teeth. Teeth can decay quickly if sugar is consumed often and teeth are not brushed. 

Adopting the right eating habits early  

Milk and water are the best drinks. Limit beverages and snacks with high sugar content, which can cause tooth decay and cavities. Many processed foods are high in sugar. Sweet snacks at an early age can encourage a ‘sweet tooth’ and may cause your child to refuse healthier options. Dried fruit and honey can stick to baby teeth. The best advice is to limit the amount of sugar your child has throughout the day.  

Providing a well-balanced diet that incorporates fruits, vegetables and dairy products promotes strong teeth and gums. Parents play a pivotal role in ensuring their child’s teeth remain healthy. When we emphasise the significance of good oral hygiene practices at an early age, we can lay a solid foundation for lifelong dental health and general health wellbeing.