How to Instruct Your Kids Good Dental Hygiene Practice

The dentists of family dentistry reno use technology and patient education to help kids develop oral hygiene habits for life. Oral hygiene is a massively overlooked aspect of educating your children about the best way to tackle their teeth and gums (to avoid most dental problems like cavities, gum diseases, or even tooth loss). The following is a comprehensive guide to educating your children on oral health.

Start Early

The practice of oral care for kids should begin even before the first tooth of your child appears. Clean your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings to remove bacteria and sugars that can cause tooth decay. Book your child´s 1st dental visit for no more than 6 months after the eruption of the first tooth. An earlier visit to the dentist can help in introducing your child to the dentist and also give basic guidance on oral care.

Make Brushing Fun

Use soft bristles with appropriate head sizes based on age. Allowing your child to pick out his favorite color or cartoon character toothbrush can make brushing teeth more fun. From the ages of 3 years, children should use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, and for those under three, a smear (roughly the size of a grain of rice). Make sure that the toothpaste does taste good and your child likes it. Put on a 2-minute song or set a timer to keep them brushing at the exact time recommended Make use of the brushing apps available or make them play games to keep engaged. Even better, brush together as a family. Kids love to copy their parents, so brush together and lead by example.

Teach Proper Techniques

Show how to brush the fronts, back, and all sides of the teeth. Show them how to brush in soft, circular actions, and encourage brushing the gum line as well. Have them clean their tongue by brushing to help get rid of bacteria and bad breath. Introduce flossing once your child has two touching teeth. Choose flossers that have handles on them to be used by children.

Promote Healthier Eating

Cutting down on sweet snacks and beverages. This is in which a number of the most of the greatest cavities can crop up so begin early. Serve healthful foods, such as fruits, vegetables, cheese, and yogurt. Advocate for water (particularly fluoridated water) rinse to help remove food particles and bacteria.

Regular Dental Visits

Have a proper dental check-up done every six months. Regular check-ups help your dentist follow how your child is doing, give professional cleans, and catch any problems early. Choose a child-friendly pediatric dentist. Take along your child’s favorite toy or book, to help ease the transition.

Lead by Example

If your child sees you taking a similar approach, it makes them more likely to pick up good habits too. That means brushing and flossing every single day and having a good attitude about dental care. 

Handle Fears and Concerns

Many children have anxiety when they visit the dentist. Read books about the dentist, watch videos, or act it out at home so they can get more comfortable with what is going to happen. Hear your child out with regards to his or her worries about dental care. Explain to them that the dentist is a friend there to prevent their teeth from going bad.

Long-Term Habits

Make their dental care routines a big deal. Instill in your child the idea that habit is good and it will serve him for life. When their mouth starts to change, you need to change how you are taking care of it. Show them the importance of their oral hygiene as they mature.

By modeling good dental hygiene habits to your kids you are investing in their future health. First, start young and make dental care a game; second, lead the way – teach by example; third, Be Skillful – model dental hygiene habits. Keep in mind that maintaining dental appointments and an optimistic oral care outlook is part of the process. It takes time and effort, but with a bit of patience, you can help your child develop the right skills.

Maria J. Eubank