Infants & Toddlers
Practicing good oral hygiene at an early age with your kids leads to lifelong oral health. When baby’s teeth start to erupt, wipe the gums with a clean, moist washcloth and progress to brushing with a child-size toothbrush. The first dental visit should take place within six months after the first tooth appears, no later than a child’s first birthday.
School aged Kids
Most kids start to lose baby teeth by age six or seven. Make sure your child has regular dental checkups, and is receiving the proper amount of fluoride to help prevent tooth decay. In addition it is wise to consider pit and fissure sealants to protect his or her smile against cavities.
Teens
Teens are generally image-conscious, however eating habits of most teens can put them at risk for tooth decay and other oral health problems. Encourage healthy smiles in older kids and teens by encouraging them to carry a travel-sized toothbrush, chew sugar-free gum, drink plenty of water and snack on healthy foods. If your teen is active in sports consider having him or her wear a mouth guard to protect against injury.
Young Adults
Oral care is just as important to now as it was when you were a child. Neglected teeth and gums can lead to infection, tooth loss and the wearing down of tissue and bone. Daily brushing and flossing can prevent these issues and keep teeth and gums healthy.
Mature Adults
Midlife adults generally have busy schedules yet it is important not to neglect oral health in the midst of a career, taking care of kids and perhaps caring for ageing parents.
Seniors
Maintaining a healthy mouth in your senior years can stave off oral infections that may be associated with heart disease, pneumonia and other health problems common in older adults. Regular dental visits can help keep your mouth healthy, even if you have dentures.