Getting your kids to develop good dental hygiene habits is often a challenge. But the foundation for a beautiful, healthy smile begins early in life. Kids enjoy large amounts of sugary snacks each day like popsicles, fruit juices, cereal, and jelly. Unfortunately, these types of foods and drinks can lead to dental problems down the road. Let’s take a look at a few tips to keep your child smiling brightly for years to come.
Make Brushing a Fun Experience
You can encourage your child to look forward to brushing if you make it fun. Allow them to pick out their own toothbrushes and select flavored toothpaste. You can also play games with them to encourage brushing.
Visit Dentist Soon After First Tooth Erupts
Your dentist can inspect the area to make sure that the teeth and bite are properly developing. Additionally, tooth decay is the childhood disease more commonly experienced by children. It can happen at any age and can harm a child’s ability to eat, sleep, learn, and speak if left untreated. Checkups twice annually can prevent the development of cavities and gum disease that can cause health problems.
Don’t Sleep on Sugar
Never let your child fall asleep with any sugared liquids. If you have to give them a bottle, just use water. This is important because milk, juice, and formula contain sugar that can cause cavities.
Reward Your Kids
If your child does a great job caring for their teeth, make sure you let them know by rewarding them. The reward might be a special sticker, a new toothbrush, or a favorite healthy treat. Even the smallest rewards can provide incentive for them to keep up their great brushing habits.
Practice Good Dental Hygiene Yourself
Experts agree that when parents model good brushing, their kids are more likely to follow suit. Your kids watch your own behavior very closely and will definitely notice if you practice what you preach!
Bolivar Family Dental has a friendly and professional team which makes a very comfortable atmosphere for patients of all ages. Feel free to call us if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s dental health and to make an appointment.