How to Prevent Dental Problems in Your Preschooler

Oral health issues can affect a child's speech, appearance and his ability to eat. Follow these steps to learn how to prevent dental problems in your preschooler.

Instructions

1. Provide preschoolers with a well-balanced diet. Dental problems in children can be largely attributed to lack of nutrition and that’s why it’s important for parents to provide kids with a variety of healthy foods each day.

2. Minimize the amount of sugary foods and drinks that your preschooler consumes. Things like candy, pastry, soda, fruit drinks, and cookies contain excessive amounts of sugar and can create a breeding ground for dental problems such as cavities and tooth decay.

3. Assist children with the task of brushing their teeth. Preschoolers’ fine motor skills haven’t had time to fully develop; this makes it difficult for them to brush their teeth properly.

4. Obtain prompt treatment of dental problems that occur. If left untreated, oral health problems will only escalate and cause infections that can lead to unnecessary pain and discomfort.

5. Go easy on the fluoride. Although fluoride is necessary to help prevent tooth decay, too much can cause permanent teeth to become discolored. Tap water (usually fluorinated) and fluoride enriched toothpaste should be plenty.

6. Take your preschoolers to regularly scheduled dental visits. Ideally, children should visit their pediatric dentist every 6 to 12 months. This minimizes the possibility of dental problems going unnoticed for extended periods of time.