How can you help your child develop healthy dental habits?
Start Early
For starters, when they’re young, before teeth come in, wipe their gums. Then, when they get teeth, clean their mouth with a little toothbrush so they get familiar with the concept of brushing teeth daily. Before their first birthday, take them to a dentist for their first visit. This helps get them started and then used to visiting the dentist– something they’ll hopefully do for the rest of their lives.
Set the Right Example
With kids, they learn by watching their parents do things, so brush and floss your teeth in front of little ones. Let them ask questions. They might want to be shown how you do what you do so that they, too, can try it out themselves. Facilitate little lessons like “how to hold your toothbrush” so they learn the basics. By age 8, they should be able to clean their teeth on their own without parental assistance.
Make it Fun
If you want to encourage kids to brush their teeth, make the routine of it something fun. Perhaps they are given a toothbrush that plays music while they brush, or has their favorite cartoon character on it. Experiment with different flavored toothpastes and/or flosses so you discover their favorite. Some love mint, while others don’t want anything flavored.
Invest in a Good Diet
Finally, teach kids what foods and drinks are good for teeth, and which ones can especially cause decay. For instance, kids should be told how sugary soft drinks (carbonated beverages) can mess with their tooth enamel, so their intake of such drinks should be limited, whereas they can drink plenty of plain water because it’s good for them and doesn’t stain teeth.
In the Batavia, NY, area, kids can visit Genesee Dental, a family friendly dentist. When your child needs to visit a dentist, call Genesee Dental at 585-343-1113 and make an appointment!