One good way to encourage brushing and flossing daily is to lead by example.
One of the biggest threats to a child’s oral health is cavities. Unfortunately, most children do experience some level of tooth decay in their early childhood years. The good news is that establishing the best oral hygiene habits early on can play a huge role in protecting your child’s smile.
Take a look at a few good tips to help your child establish good oral health habits at an early age.
Get the Child Excited with Oral Hygiene Supplies
There are a ton of fun oral hygiene supplies for children. Fun character toothbrushes, flosses shaped like animals, and toothpaste that has a fun flavor are all good examples. You can even get a mouthwash that shows the child where they need to brush by tinting plaque a certain color. Just be sure to look for products that are approved by the American Dental Association so you know the product is safe and effective.
Show Children How to Properly Brush and Floss Their Teeth
Children should be brushing their teeth twice a day for two to three minutes each time. Flossing can be a little harder for younger children but should be done at least once a day. One good way to encourage brushing and flossing daily is to lead by example. When you brush and floss, make a habit of bringing the child with you so they want to do what you do. This is also a good way to monitor a child and make sure they are actually brushing and flossing.
Encourage a Healthy Diet That’s Good for the Smile
The healthier a child’s diet is, the less likely it will be that they have issues with decay. One of the most important things to eliminate from the diet is sugar, but also watch out for sugary drinks and starchy foods that can contribute to plaque formation and decay. Stick with a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and drinks that are not overly sugary.
Visit a Pediatric Dentist for a Checkup and Cleaning
Children should get their first dental checkup at about one year of age. From here, cleanings are important twice a year. Sticking to this schedule will help to prevent problems with decay and get your child used to the routine of visiting the dentist. If you have questions about establishing good oral hygiene habits, be sure to talk to the dentist at your child’s next appointment.
