Hammond Dental Centre — helping you teach your child the importance of good dental hygiene

Dr. Townshend, Dr. Albert, Dr. Khouri, and the entire Hammond Dental Centre team understand that as a parent, you take on much of the responsibility when it comes to your child’s oral hygiene.

You want them to develop good brushing and flossing habits that will last them a lifetime, and you want their teeth and gums to stay healthy.

We want even the littlest patients to learn about the importance of good dental health. We also believe that when kids have this knowledge, they are more likely to be active participants in their daily brushing and flossing.

Discussion

Talk to your child about brushing and flossing, and why it’s important to keep your teeth strong and healthy. Explain how sugar can stick to your teeth if it isn’t brushed away.

Demonstration

Demonstrate proper technique by brushing and flossing in front of them, and help them learn to do it themselves.

Attitude

Maintain light, relaxed conversations about dental visits. Even if coming to the dentist isn’t your favourite activity, keep all comments breezy positive in front of your child. They need to see that going to Dr. Townshend, Dr. Albert or Dr. Khouri is nothing to fear.

FAQs

Q: I often hear my child grinding their teeth, and I’m afraid they’re damaging them. Should they be fitted for a bite appliance?

A: Bite appliances are not usually suggested for children with primary or mixed dentitions, as they can restrict the growth of their jaw and the normal exfoliation of their teeth. But please speak to us about your child’s grinding habits, as there may be other ways we can help them.

Q: I’m terribly afraid of going to the dentist. How do I prevent my children from being afraid, too?

A: It’s important that you try not to pass your fear of the dentist along to your children. Maintain light, relaxed conversations about dental visits. Keep all comments breezy positive in front of your child. They need to see going to the dentist as a fun new experience — not something to fear or dread.

Q: My eight-month-old baby has three teeth, but I feel silly brushing them. Can babies get cavities?

A: Babies can absolutely get cavities, and it’s often referred to as “baby bottle tooth decay.” Sugars from milk and juice settle on their teeth and can begin to cause decay. Since babies often drink slowly — a few sips here and there, all day — we recommend that parents encourage their baby or toddler to finish a drink within 20 minutes. Then the parents should wipe their baby’s teeth and gums to clean them, using a soft infant toothbrush or a wet washcloth. Do not put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice.