A great way to prevent tooth decay in children is to get them excited about their own dental hygiene. As adults, it is up to us to set the daily habits and teach our children how to care for their teeth. If we keep it exciting and make it a regular part of our everyday life, then children will too.
Children should be brought to the dentist for their first visit when they are babies – between 6 months and one year old. If we can make an impact when they are young, it will benefit them their whole life through.
Good Dental Hygiene Habits for Children
So what are some ways to help our children set healthy dental hygiene habits?
A few days after your baby is born, begin by gently wiping their gums with a soft cloth or moist gauze.
For children under 3, gently brush their teeth with a soft toothbrush twice a day.
Be sure to brush your child’s teeth gently using short strokes over the front, back and tops of teeth.
Use a toothpaste with fluoride to help fight tooth decay. Only use a smear of toothpaste for children under 3 and then just a pea sized dollop for children older than 3.
When your child has two teeth that touch, start to floss on a daily basis.
Limit your child’s intake of sugar.
Promote healthy eating of crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots.
Promote the drinking of fluoridated water.
Talk about your visits to the dentist calmly and positively.
Take care of your own teeth and be an example to your children of good dental hygiene.
Start your kids on the road to good dental habits by practicing these tips every day and help them feel empowered about keeping their own teeth and gums healthy. To set up your child’s first appointment call JVR Dental at 607-371-3138 or book online.
Source: https://www.jvrdental.com/blog/dental-care-tips-for-children/