The journey toward good oral care must begin even before your child’s first tooth appears. This is the beginning of an exciting relationship with brushing, flossing, and the dentist. To help promote healthy dental habits in your kids as they grow, here are three tips you can use.
1. Show Them How to Brush Properly
According to the ADA (American Dental Association), until they are three years old, you should gently brush their teeth using a toothpaste dollop equivalent to a grain of rice. When your child first begins brushing their teeth on their own, they’ll need to be supervised. That’s because up to 80% of kids will only brush their teeth if they have to, according to Cleveland Clinic. Show them how to brush their teeth in small, gentle circles and at a 45-degree angle to get each nook and cranny. Consider brushing your teeth at the same time as them, so they can see exactly how to do it.
2. Feed Them the Proper Nutrition and Diet
Bacteria love to feed on sugar, so it’s important to limit the number of sugary foods and drinks your child consumes. Sticky and sugary foods and drinks can feed the bacteria in your child’s mouth, which can lead to cavities. Reduce the amount of fruit juice your child drinks, too, because this can be a surprising source of sugar. To strengthen your child’s teeth, make sure their diet includes calcium sources such as yogurt, broccoli, and milk.
3. Choose the Right Orthodontist
As your child gets older, you may notice that they’re experiencing some discomfort with their teeth or jaw. They may have difficulty chewing or may snore at night. If this is the case, there could be a chance that something is amiss with their teeth. That’s why it’s important to make sure that your child visits the orthodontist by the age of seven.
Opt for an orthodontist that’s great with kids and specializes in pediatric orthodontics. They should care about your child and be compassionate and authentic during your child’s visit. The right orthodontist will engage, listen and educate you while working to help your child smile with confidence.
Good oral habits promote healthy teeth. That beautiful smile on your child is made possible by routine brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist and orthodontist. For more information about how to promote healthy dental habits in your kids, or to schedule a dentist appointment, be sure to reach out to Four Corners Orthodontics & Dental today.