Early habit warning for children's dental health: Brushing, screen time, and nutrition are effective together

Protecting oral and dental health in children should not be viewed merely as a routine to prevent cavities. According to Pediatric Dentist Dt. Nurgül Demir, correct habits acquired at an early age affect many areas, from nutrition to speech development, and from jaw structure to the alignment of permanent teeth that will emerge later.

Demir stated that the first primary teeth usually begin to emerge between the 6th and 12th months of infancy, emphasizing that an oral hygiene routine should be established from this period onwards. Expressing that the risk of cavities and infection increases if the 20 primary teeth, which are completed around the age of 2.5-3, are not cleaned regularly, Demir noted that the idea that "primary teeth will be replaced anyway" is incorrect.

Keeping primary teeth healthy is important for the child's nutrition, speech, jaw development, and the healthy eruption of permanent teeth. For this reason, it is recommended that the habit of brushing teeth be acquired as early as possible with family support.

BRUSHING TEETH SHOULD BE A DAILY ROUTINE, NOT A PUNISHMENT

According to Demir, the role of parents is decisive in children acquiring habits. Since children learn by observing their parents, especially at an early age, brushing teeth should become a pleasant daily routine performed together. Presenting this process as a necessity or a punishment makes it harder for the habit to become permanent.

Stating that brushing should be continued under parental supervision until the permanent teeth are fully in place, Demir expressed that ensuring adequate hygiene during the mixed dentition period will help prevent larger problems that may arise in the future.

The amount of toothpaste for children should also be adjusted according to age. It is recommended to use a rice grain-sized amount of toothpaste up to the age of 3, and a pea-sized amount between the ages of 3-6. Brushing teeth twice a day with the correct technique and regular dental check-ups are among the fundamental measures for detecting early problems before they progress.

A cautious approach is also required regarding probiotics, whose relationship with oral health has been discussed more frequently in recent years. Demir stated that some studies show certain probiotic strains can reduce the levels of bacteria that cause cavities, and can also support saliva flow and oral pH balance. However, she specifically emphasized that probiotics do not replace tooth brushing and regular oral care.

EATING IN FRONT OF A SCREEN CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF CAVITIES

The increase in tablet and phone usage in children brings new risks to the agenda regarding oral and jaw development. According to Demir, chewing time can involuntarily extend while eating in front of a screen, or the child may develop a habit of keeping food in their mouth. Especially foods containing carbohydrates and sugar can increase the risk of cavities if they remain in the mouth for a long time.

Children who do not focus on their food during screen time may also develop the habit of eating with their mouths open. This situation is considered among the factors that can negatively affect jaw development. Keeping the device below eye level while using a tablet or phone for a long time can also lead to the head remaining in a constantly forward-leaning position, which can affect neck posture, respiratory functions, and jaw development.

Stating that teeth grinding, trauma, and posture disorders are among the common causes of temporomandibular joint problems, Demir said that symptoms such as limited jaw movement, difficulty while chewing, or clicking sounds from the joint should be taken into account.

Pointing out that prolonged screen use can trigger the habit of mouth breathing in some children, Demir stated that mouth breathing can affect upper jaw development by preventing the tongue from positioning correctly. These situations, if not noticed early, can pave the way for jaw narrowing, malocclusions, and problems related to facial development in the future.

Demir emphasized that the foundation of a healthy oral structure in children is laid at an early age, noting that regular brushing, the use of correct products, balanced nutrition, control of screen habits, and regular dental examinations are the primary steps that support lifelong oral health.