Helping your child understand how to care for their overall health is the most important thing you can teach. Poor oral health care is linked to heart disease and that is the number one killer in the United States today! To help you get your child off to a good start, here are a few tips:
1. Start early!
Begin brushing your child's teeth as soon as the first tooth appears. You don't need to use tooth paste, just a little water and your finger a first, then a baby tooth brush that's soft and won't hurt her irritated gums. The four front teeth generally begin to appear around 6 months of age.
2. Brush with your child
Children learn best by good example. Put tooth paste (a pea-sized amount) on your child's toothbrush and brush at the same time if you can. Help your child by brushing for them, using proper technique to ensure the teeth are clean, after they've done their best job. Most children should brush well by themselves by age 6 or 7. Remember to make sure they know to spit out toothpaste and not to swallow. Flossing cannot be overlooked, either! Floss for your child and ask us to help teach the basics, too.
We have made several videos available for parents to help teach kids how to brush, and how to relax while in our offices. You can find them under the pediatric tab on our Dental Videos page.
3. Make an appointment
The American Dental Association recommends taking your child to the dentist by their first birthday for a "well baby check up." Check with your dentist first to see when they would like to see your child.
If your child is elementary aged, try to schedule their cleanings in the morning. Most children are on their best behavior in the morning and will hear what the dentist is saying best, then. Your child will likely be more cooperative for the dentist or hygienist at that time also!
In the case of pre-adolescents, I may recommend sealants. Sealants are an excellent barrier against cavities and in many cases are covered by insurance!
4. Keep it up!
You can make a big impact on your child's oral and overall health by keeping up some good behaviors everyday. Provide them will a well-balanced diet, with healthy snacks. Limit sugary snacks and always encourage brushing after every meal. Foods like raisins are healthy for you, but stick to the teeth like candy. Brushing well can counteract the snack!
Resources for kids:
Dental Health Crossword Puzzle
McGrinn and Smiley coloring sheet
Healthy Smile Certificate
Word Decoder Activity
Sources: American Dental Association
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