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CHILDREN’S DENTAL CARE: TIPS FOR PARENTS

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As a parent, ensuring your child has a healthy smile is one of the best gifts you can give them. Good dental hygiene doesn’t just prevent cavities and gum disease, but it also sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy habits. In this blog, we’ll share some essential tips to help guide you through your child’s dental care journey. 1. START EARLY Dental care begins even before your child’s first tooth appears. Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. This helps remove bacteria and establishes a routine of oral care. When the first teeth emerge, usually around six months, it’s time to start brushing with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste. 2. ESTABLISH A ROUTINE Creating a consistent dental care routine is crucial. Make brushing twice a day—morning and night—a part of your child’s daily activities. Supervise their brushing until they’re about 7 or 8 years old to ensure they’re doing it correctly. Teaching them the importance of ...

HOW TO PREVENT GUM RECESSION & PROTECT YOUR SMILE AS YOU AGE

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Gum recession is one of those things that sneaks up on people. One day, your smile looks the same as always, and then suddenly, your teeth seem longer, or you start feeling sensitivity when drinking something cold. It’s a common issue, especially as we age, but it’s not something you have to accept. At Tatum Dentistry , our Charleston dentist team wants to help you keep your gums healthy for life. In this blog, we’ll explore why gum recession happens, how to slow it down, and what to do if your gums are already receding. WHAT EXACTLY IS GUM RECESSION? Gum recession happens when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots. Unlike enamel, the roots of your teeth don’t have a protective coating, which makes them more sensitive to temperature changes, bacteria, and even decay. It doesn’t happen overnight—it’s usually a gradual process. Many people don’t notice until tooth sensitivity kicks in or they see changes in their smile. WHAT CAUSES GUM RECESSION? There are s...