A Few Words on Proper Oral Hygiene and Prevention in Infants and Children

Dr. Dobrila Kangova

Why Is the Health of Baby Teeth Important and How Do They Affect the Development of Permanent Teeth?

Proper and regular oral hygiene, routine dental check-ups, and healthy nutrition are essential for oral health. Developing good oral hygiene habits should begin in early childhood, as healthy baby teeth form the foundation for healthy permanent teeth. If cavities in baby teeth are not treated on time, there is a risk of infection spreading to permanent teeth or leading to premature tooth extraction. Baby teeth play an important role in chewing and food processing, determining the position of permanent teeth, supporting speech development, and reflecting overall health.

What Are the Most Common Mistakes Related to Baby Teeth Oral Health?

Unfortunately, there is still a widespread belief that the health of baby teeth does not affect permanent teeth and that dental visits are necessary only when pain occurs. We should work together to eliminate this misconception and emphasize the importance of preventive dental care.

Oral care should begin no later than six months after the first tooth erupts, when a dental check-up becomes mandatory. Often, children fall asleep with a milk bottle or sweetened pacifier, which promotes bacterial growth in the mouth. These bacteria produce acids that demineralize the teeth. Saliva flow, which naturally cleans the mouth, decreases at night, making this practice particularly harmful and should be avoided.

Prolonged pacifier use may also cause tooth misalignment, speech difficulties, and the need for orthodontic treatment. Sugary foods, carbonated drinks, sticky candies, and sweets should be limited or avoided in children's diets. While pureed foods are common in early childhood, gums become stronger and healthier when children consume firmer foods, which stimulate blood circulation, encourage tooth eruption, and strengthen existing teeth.

How to Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene in Infants and Children and Prevent Early Tooth Decay

Oral hygiene begins at birth. To clean an infant’s gums, gently wipe them with sterile gauze moistened with warm water or a cotton swab soaked in saline solution. Between six and eight months, when the first teeth erupt, brushing should begin using a child-friendly toothpaste containing up to 1000 ppm fluoride and a soft toothbrush. The amount of toothpaste should not exceed the size of a grain of rice.

Once the child turns one year old, brush the teeth twice daily for two minutes — in the morning and evening. Children are generally able to brush independently and use dental floss by the age of 12. If flossing is difficult, interdental brushes are a convenient alternative. Toothbrushes should always have soft bristles and should not be pre-wetted before brushing, as this reduces cleaning effectiveness. Teeth should ideally be brushed about 30 minutes after meals to protect tooth enamel.

When the first permanent molars erupt, fissure sealing is recommended. Fissures are small grooves where food easily accumulates and cavities commonly develop. Sealants extend the lifespan of permanent molars and prevent decay. This painless procedure is performed only on healthy teeth. Sealants provide both mechanical protection and preventive benefits, creating a barrier against food and bacteria while delivering fluoride to strengthen enamel.

Regular dental check-ups are essential for early detection of cavities and professional guidance.

Which Foods Are Good for Teeth?

Vegetables and fruits rich in fiber naturally clean teeth and stimulate saliva production. Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, kefir, and cheese are rich in calcium and phosphates, helping protect tooth enamel. Seafood, grapes, black and green tea are good sources of fluoride. Water remains the most important source of fluoride intake.

Regardless of diet, the most important habit is brushing teeth properly and regularly — twice daily for two minutes, and ideally after meals. When brushing is not possible, chewing sugar-free gum can help. Dental floss should always be used before brushing.