5 Important Dental Care Tips to Teach Your Children

According to the CDC, 13.2% of children aged 5-19 years have untreated dental caries (cavities). The good news is that this can easily be prevented through regular dental care.

Teaching your children how to take care of their teeth and mouth at an early age is key to a lifetime of good oral hygiene habits. Here’s what you should teach them.

1. The Right Foods

We know that sweets and foods high in acid are bad for the teeth, and this is something you should teach your children too. Sugar is the leading cause of issues like tooth decay. It causes cavities and does damage to your teeth.

Encourage your kids to make healthy choices and choose teeth-friendly foods. If they do indulge in sweet drinks or foods, teach them to use a straw. This lessens the exposure their teeth have to sugary beverages.

Drinking water is also a good way to dilute the sugar and rinse the mouth. Remember—moderation is key!

2. Start Teaching Kids Dental Care Early

Dental care should begin as soon as your child’s teeth start erupting. As soon as your kids are old enough to understand, start teaching them proper dental care.

After they learn to brush their teeth, you can teach them to floss. Flossing requires a bit more coordination, so it may take some time to get right.

3. Let Them Pick Their Dental Supplies

Let your kids choose their own toothbrush, toothpaste, and toothbrush holder. This gives them some creative control over their oral hygiene and makes the process more fun for them.

There are a variety of toothbrushes on the market with popular characters kids love. Seeing their favorite superhero or princess in the morning can turn a chore into something more enjoyable.

There are also a variety of toothpaste flavors on the market. Flavors like bubblegum or vanilla might be more appealing than mint.

4. Find the Right Pediatric Dentist

Pediatric dentistry is an important part of keeping your child’s smile healthy. To find the best dentist near you, look over the services they offer and choose a dental office that’s kid-friendly. They should handle cleanings, dentistry, dental emergencies, and other dental treatments.

Finding the right pediatric dentist can make going to the dentist an easy and fun process instead of a scary one.

5. Reward Them for Good Behavior

If your child continues to brush and floss consistently, consider rewarding them for their good behavior. Create a chart and put stickers on it.

Use rewards that aren’t sugary, though. You might want to make time for a fun movie night, take them to the park, or buy them a new toy. Even praising them for a good job goes a long way.

Teach Your Kids Proper Dental Care

Use these five tips and strategies to teach your children proper dental care early. Teach them good habits and make brushing fun for a healthier smile.

Make sure to schedule regular dental appointments as well. A pediatric dentist can spot issues early on and correct them.

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