As adults, we are well aware of dental bills that can rack up thousands of dollars. So as a parent, you can’t help but wonder how to ensure your child’s pearly whites stay healthy and strong.
Lots of parents struggle to keep their children’s oral health in check, especially when they resist dental care. Some children may fear dental visits, making it difficult to perform regular dental checkups and treatments necessary to keep their teeth healthy. Others may just resist at-home dental care, making small things like correct brushing techniques difficult to administer.
Luckily we’ve got some tips that might help.
1. Regular and Correct Brushing Technique
Although this may be challenging, try to ensure your child brushes their teeth regularly using the correct technique. This practice should be more than a chore; it’s an essential habit that promotes oral health. Brushing duration plays a crucial role. Aim for at least two minutes, twice a day. It’s not about rushing through but spending quality time on each tooth.
Toothbrush selection also matters. Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid damaging your child’s gums and weathering tooth enamel. The size of the brush should fit comfortably in their mouth, allowing it to reach all areas easily. For younger kids, a toothbrush with a smaller head and a larger handle is ideal.
2. Importance of Fluoride Toothpaste
You might be wondering, is fluoride safe for my child? Absolutely! Fluoride safety is well-documented, and it’s considered a vital element in maintaining dental health.
Fluoride toothpaste is the superhero of oral hygiene. This compound strengthens your child’s teeth, making them resistant to decay. It repairs early signs of cavities even before they become a significant issue. The benefits of fluoride are extensive, but its power lies in its ability to fight and reverse tooth decay. A pea-sized amount on the brush is enough for kids, and it’s important that they learn not to swallow it.
3. Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits
Beyond brushing and flossing, adopting healthy eating habits plays a significant role in your child’s dental health. Encouraging a balanced diet not only boosts their overall health but also helps maintain strong teeth and gums.
Incorporate a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into their meals. These foods are packed with essential nutrients that promote healthy teeth. Dairy products like milk and cheese are rich sources of calcium, which strengthens tooth enamel.
Sugar control is crucial in preventing dental issues. Sugary treats and drinks can lead to tooth decay. We aren’t saying to completely eliminate sugar, but rather teach your child to consume in moderation. Encourage them to choose water over sugary drinks and fruits over candy.
Teaching your child about the importance of a balanced diet and sugar control from a young age can establish lifelong healthy habits. Remember, your role doesn’t stop at providing nutritious food. Make mealtimes an educational opportunity. Explain the food’s benefits to their teeth and overall health.
4. Regular Dental Check-ups and Cleanings
Scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings is essential in maintaining your child’s oral health. These visits provide an opportunity for your child’s dentist to thoroughly clean their teeth and gums, removing plaque and tartar build-up that you can’t reach with daily brushing and rinsing.
In addition, dental X-rays are often part of your child’s regular dental check-up. X-rays give a more detailed view of your child’s teeth and gums, helping to detect any hidden dental problems early on.
5. Teaching the Importance of Flossing
Despite its seemingly simple nature, teaching your child the importance of flossing can go a long way in maintaining their oral health. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gum line that brushing alone can’t reach. Daily flossing from an early age helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
To make flossing more appealing to your child, introduce them to a variety of flossing tools. There are standard floss, floss picks, and even flossers designed especially for kids. Let your child choose the tool they’d like to use. The idea is to let them feel involved and empowered in taking care of their teeth.
Your Top Children’s Dentist in WA
Need to schedule your child’s next dental visit? Our family dentists provide comprehensive children’s dentistry including fillings, crowns and extractions. Book now at any one of our five locations across WA.