Between the ages of 6 and 12, boys and girls go through a key stage of physical and emotional growth that also involves significant changes in their oral health. It is a transitional period in which baby teeth coexist with the first permanent teeth, making prevention and family support essential to ensure healthy habits from childhood.
With this purpose, Dentaid, a leading oral health company, presents the “Decalogue of Oral Health in Early Childhood”, a practical tool aimed at families, educators, and caregivers to promote hygiene routines, prevent complications, and support the development of healthy teeth, laying the foundation for a full and healthy life.
Dental caries continues to be the most common non-communicable disease in childhood, affecting more than 600 million children worldwide, according to data from the World Health Organization. Its appearance is related to the frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks, insufficient brushing, or the lack of regular dental check-ups.
Dr. Marta Larrea, dentist and Global Medical Lead at Dentaid: “From ages 6 to 12, routines are consolidated that will accompany the child through adolescence and into adulthood. This decalogue will help parents and guardians understand how to supervise children's oral hygiene through dynamics that go beyond brushing time, always from a scientific perspective. These tips, along with regular check-ups with the pediatric dentist and a balanced diet, will lay the foundation for lifelong oral health in childhood”.
Decalogue of Oral Health in Early Childhood
The mouths of children aged 6 to 12 are undergoing significant changes, and every gesture counts: from how they brush their teeth to what they eat or the confidence they develop with the dentist. Maintaining good oral health through small daily routines, accompanied by the example and involvement of families, can make the difference between a healthy mouth today and its future repercussions.
- Promotes the use of the toothbrush as a fundamental tool for oral health
Teach them to brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste (1450ppm) for two minutes. Replace the toothbrush every three or four months and make brushing a fun moment
- Supervise brushing technique: they still need your help
Between the ages of 6 and 9, children do not fully master the technique. Supervise their hygiene and remind them to spit out the toothpaste without rinsing with water to maintain the effect of the fluoride.
- Don't let the first molar go unnoticed
It appears around age 6 and is key for chewing and dental alignment. Its position makes it vulnerable to cavities, so an early check-up is essential
- Facilitates a trusting relationship with the dentist
Regular visits every six or twelve months help detect cavities, apply fluoride, and normalize visits to the pediatric dentist and hygienist from a young age.
- Encourage a diet that protects their oral and general health
Avoid free sugars and carbonated drinks. Educate on a healthy diet that strengthens teeth and gums.
- Prevent and treat trauma
Sports and games can cause blows or falls. Use a mouthguard and see a dentist after any impact, even if it seems minor.
- Observe the eruption and the development of the bite
An orthodontic check-up before the age of seven allows for the detection of alterations in the bite or tooth alignment.
- Remember that bleeding gums are not normal
Childhood gingivitis can be prevented by reinforcing hygiene, cleaning the tongue and interdental spaces
- Motivate him by example: your habits are his best learning
Children learn by observing. Brush your teeth alongside them, take care of your diet, and visit the dentist regularly
- Remember that your oral health affects your overall well-being
Oral diseases can affect your eating, sleep, school performance, and self-esteem. Taking care of your mouth is taking care of your health and happiness
The time invested now in their oral health care and education will transform into future well-being, reducing the risk of local and systemic diseases and contributing to greater confidence, as well as a healthier and happier life. At Dentaid, we have been developing effective, innovative solutions adapted to each stage of life for over 45 years to improve people's oral health. In childhood, working hand-in-hand with professionals, parents, and educators is key to integrating oral hygiene routines into a child's daily life.
Because a healthy mouth is also a happy childhood.