Did you know that February is National Children’s Dental Health Month? That makes it the perfect time to pause and reflect on your household’s habits. Are you doing all you can to keep your young one’s smile in great shape? Here are some tips that could set your child up for a lifetime of strong and functional teeth:
Schedule a Checkup
Just like adults, children should see their dentist for a checkup every six months. If it has been longer than half a year since your little one’s last dental exam, now is the ideal time to book an appointment. If they are a little nervous about the experience, take some time to provide age-appropriate education on the importance of a healthy smile.
If your child is still an infant, you should book their first dental appointment around the time their first tooth comes in.
Encourage Good Oral Hygiene at Home
Most children develop the dexterity needed to brush their own teeth sometime between 6 and 9 years of age. Before then, you will need to play an active role in their daily brushing and flossing routine. First, let them try it on their own. Then, you can help them by cleaning any spots they missed.
If your child is reluctant to brush and floss, you might need to implement a rewards system to give them a bit of motivation. You could also consider buying them a fun toothbrush.
Stock Up on Healthy Snacks
Most kids love sugary snacks and beverages. Unfortunately, those items can easily contribute to tooth decay. Try to make sure your child always has healthier alternatives available. For example, you can stock up on things like nuts, cheese, and fresh fruits and veggies. You can also try to teach them the value of drinking plain water.
Do Not Minimize the Importance of Baby Teeth
Some parents and guardians make the mistake of minimizing the importance of their child’s primary teeth, reasoning that the teeth will fall out eventually anyway. However, baby teeth are very important. If they fall out prematurely, that can interfere with the alignment of incoming adult teeth. Plus, poor oral health can cause pain, decrease school performance, and negatively affect your child’s confidence.
Good oral health habits should be established as early in life as possible.
Your child deserves a healthy and happy smile! Use the tips in this article to make the most of National Children’s Dental Health Month.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Ransey Boyd and Kristin Walther are proud to provide top-quality oral care to families in Tallahassee. They welcome patients of virtually all ages, and they love to partner with parents to help young ones enjoy all the benefits of strong teeth and healthy gums. If it is time for your young one’s next checkup, we are eager to welcome you into our office. Contact our team at 850-878-4117.