If you want to give your child the best head start on the road to lifelong dental health, the most important thing you can do is establish healthy dental habits at a young age. A little bit of care at an early age can set your child up for good oral health habits, and this will help them avoid more extensive dental care later on in life. To get your child off on the right foot when it comes to dental health, here are some suggestions to follow when starting your child on the road to dental health.
Never Skip Brushing Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth is probably the most important part of dental health. Kids should learn to brush their teeth at least twice a day. Brushing twice a day is important because it helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Plaque can build up on your teeth if you don't brush twice a day. This plaque can lead to cavities and other problems such as gum disease.
Floss Daily
Teaching your kids how to floss while they're young is the best way to create healthy habits that can last their whole lives. Parents can do this by showing them how and what to use and then supervising them as they floss. Start off with a piece of dental floss that is long enough to reach around both sides of their mouth. Tie a knot at one end so they can hold it in place while they floss.
Use Fluoride
Fluoride treatments can be an important part of a healthy, developing smile. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, which helps protect against decay. It also promotes remineralization, which means that it can repair weak spots in tooth enamel. According to Healthline, children who received fluoride treatments for one year were 43 percent less likely to develop tooth decay.
Beware of Sugary Drinks And Food
To avoid tooth decay, it is important for children to limit their intake of sugary drinks. The best way for children to stay hydrated is by drinking lots of water throughout the day. When eating food that contains sugar, it can be a good idea to brush your teeth after you’re done eating.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Most pediatric dentists recommend that children visit their dentist every six months. That way, they can catch cavities early and treat them before they have a chance to turn into more severe dental problems. This is also a great opportunity for you to ask questions and learn more about what you can do to help keep your child's teeth healthy.
It’s Never Too Early To Learn Healthy Dental Habits
Tooth decay can start as soon as a baby starts eating solid foods, so it's important to brush their teeth with a soft toothbrush, using only water or a smear of fluoride-free toothpaste. Brushing twice a day is also recommended, but don't forget at bedtime since this is when plaque tends to build up and cause problems.
Pediatric Dentists in New Jersey
At Tender Smiles 4 Kids, our dentists are dedicated to helping children establish healthy habits while they’re young for a lifetime of good dental health at our offices in Edison, Freehold, Roselle, New Brunswick, and Ocean Township. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.