Studies show that adults who learned proper oral hygiene and ate balanced diets as children are more likely to enjoy good oral health. Setting a standard for healthy oral habits begins in childhood. Parents and caregivers can substantially reduce the incidence of childhood tooth decay by prioritizing oral hygiene, promoting healthy eating habits, and scheduling routine dental care. Our children’s dentist offers a fun, family-friendly environment that kids of all ages enjoy.
Prioritize Oral Hygiene
Brushing, and eventually flossing, should be a part of every child’s day. Children should brush their teeth with ADA-accepted toothpaste and toothbrushes at least twice a day. Around the age of four or five, children should begin learning how to floss on their own. Parents and caregivers should watch children’s oral hygiene habits at first to ensure that they are brushing and flossing properly. Sometimes making oral hygiene into a game-like situation is helpful. For instance, using a small hourglass as a timer or rewarding children with stickers on progress charts is helpful for making oral hygiene fun and memorable.
Establish Healthy Eating Habits
When possible, sugar-laden food should be avoided. Instead of candy, opt for fresh fruit as a healthy snack. Limiting soda and juice intake is especially helpful for preventing decay. Sugar is a natural source of food for cavity-causing bacteria. Moreover, popular drinks like soda contain acid, which weakens teeth. Encourage your children to drink water throughout the day. Eating diets low in sugar helps control bacteria and water helps dilute acid and rinse the mouth.
Schedule Routine Professional Care
While healthy eating and proper oral hygiene are important for preventing decay, nothing can replace professional oral healthcare. Children should receive two cleanings per year and annual checkups. Cleanings are necessary for removing substances that can’t be removed by brushing and flossing alone and regular checkups can reveal potential problems early on. The earlier problems are detected, the more conservative the treatment. During appointments, we also help educate children on healthy dental habits to lay a foundation of patient empowerment.
To schedule an appointment with our children’s dentist, call us at Dental Depot today.