There is a startling rise in the number of children that have cavities, and tooth decay affects more than 25% of American children aged 2 to 5, and the number is even higher for those who are older children. Keeping kids teeth healthy from the start will ensure that you spend less time and money on them in the long run.
Take Them in for Checkups
Children should see a dentist by the time their first tooth comes in (around 6 months) or by their first birthday, and this type of preventative care will save heaps of money in the long run. The dentist will assess and ensure that teeth are coming in normally and can put together a preventative plan while answering any questions that you may have about their dental development and other factors that can impact their smile as they get older. This will also ensure that your child gets comfortable going to the dentist and will see it as a necessary routine.
Teach Them Good Habits Early
Brush your teeth in front of your child. Often times, children will imitate what their parents do, so this is a great time to show them how to brush all parts of the mouth including the tongue. Explain how you are doing it while showing them. Once their first molar comes in is a great time to start brushing with just a small smear of toothpaste. Once they turn 2 years old they can have a pea sized amount of toothpaste, and more as they get older and can spit it out on command, this is generally around the age of 6.
Cut Back on Unnecessary Sugars
According to familydentalcentres.com, you should limit the amount of sugary foods that your child consumes. Sugary foods or liquids have time to sit on the teeth and can even be stuck between them. If they can’t be eliminated completely, aim to give them only during the day when the mouth produces enough saliva to help wash it away naturally. One hidden sugar culprit is sweetened medicines. Medicines are sweetened in order to get a child to take it. When these medicines stick to the teeth, the chance to get a cavity increases. Make sure to have them rinse if they take sugary medicine right before bed.
Making Brushing Fun
Think of ways to make your child look forward to brushing. There are so many neat toothbrushes available, allow them to choose one for themselves that has a character that they like—one that lights up, or one that plays music. The lights and songs sometimes even serve as a timer.
Stand Firm on Dental Hygiene
Kids may begin brushing their teeth with help at 2 or 3, but might need help until they’re about 6. Around the age of 10, kids will generally get the hang of a flossing routine. When a child is tired, there may be a lack of cooperation with brushing and flossing, so make sure to get it done before their eyelids get too heavy. Those who are 5 or older can pick their own toothpaste, making them a bit more likely to cooperate when it comes time to brush their teeth. Motivate brushing with stickers on a chart when they complete it with no problems.
Cut Out Sippy Cups and Pacifiers
Usually these are given at bedtime with milk or juice, but the way that they are made makes liquid sit on the teeth, making it more susceptible for cavities. Surely this is normally when they have baby teeth in, but healthy baby teeth are just as important as healthy adult teeth. They are vital in proper chewing and speech development.
Final Words
When you and your child work together to develop habits to keep teeth healthy, it is likely that they will grow to see the value of keeping it up. Education is the best foundation for teaching healthy dental habits from early on, and children can learn it best from their parents. A little effort each day will make healthy teeth a reachable goal for parents who are just getting started with their little ones, and for those who are willing to learn more about dental hygiene.