Looking after your teeth well involves starting early and staying the course.
Neglecting oral care is not just risking cavities and gum disease – poor dental hygiene can potentially open the door to severe healthcare issues like heart disease, diabetes and respiratory infections.
The oral health journey begins in infancy. Cleaning your baby’s gums is essential even before the first tooth erupts to prevent bacterial buildup. Celebrate the arrival of your child’s first tooth at around six months of age. This is the ideal time to introduce a brushing routine using a soft toothbrush and a tiny bit of infant toothpaste. Early visits to the dentist, ideally by the child’s first birthday, are not only to check for cavities and developmental issues but also to educate parents on proper oral hygiene.
Bringing your child to the dentist early lays the foundations for a lifetime of good oral care habits and helps them get used to the dentist’s rooms. Ultimately, children with healthy teeth can usually chew food easily, learn to speak clearly, smile confidently and retain their teeth to a ripe old age.
Ongoing commitment
From early childhood to adolescence is an exciting time in your child’s development. Children start losing their baby teeth at around six years, and by the age of 12, most of their permanent teeth will have erupted.
The first permanent tooth to appear is usually the first molar, right at the back of the mouth. This makes it particularly important to ensure your child gets right to the back of their mouth when brushing their teeth.
It is vital to encourage children to brush their teeth twice daily and clean each tooth’s front, back and chewing surfaces. It is also advisable for children to start flossing between all teeth at least once a day. Regular dental check-ups every six months are key during this stage of rapid change in the mouth.
The teenage years bring their own dental challenges, such as orthodontic treatments and increased risk of cavities due to dietary choices. Braces or removable appliances are often recommended during this period to correct misalignments and ensure proper bite function.
It is important to be aware of the impact that lifestyle choices such as smoking and diet have on oral health. The use of tobacco can lead to gum disease, tooth decay and oral cancer. Consuming sugary drinks and snacks can result in enamel erosion and cavities.
Getting older does not mean the end of your oral health journey – no matter your age, good oral hygiene habits are always important. Stay vigilant for issues such as gum disease and tooth loss that can arise with age.
According to Harvard Health, as people age, they face new challenges in maintaining oral health. Medications can cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Older individuals are also more susceptible to oral cancer, which requires regular screenings. Maintaining a diet rich in calcium and vitamins can help keep teeth and gums healthy and it is important to continue visiting the dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups to address these issues promptly.
Text | Rahul Gathiram
Photography | Yuri A
Dr Rahul Gathiram is dental director of Netcare Medicross medical and dental centres. For more information, go to netcare.co.za.
