Tips for Helping Your Children Maintain Optimal Oral Hygiene and Health

Keeping your child’s teeth healthy shouldn’t be an exhausting task. There are many steps you can take to make oral hygiene a priority in your child’s life. Here is a children’s oral health guide to help you encourage healthy habits from an early age.
 

Making Children's Oral Health Guide Fun For Good Hygiene 

Very few children consider brushing fun, but you can still encourage healthy hygiene habits from an early age, which can translate into a lifetime of healthy habits. You can promote excellent hygiene practices by brushing your teeth in front of your children. By maintaining your oral health in front of your kids, you can normalize healthy behaviors. It is also more effective to show your children keeping their mouths healthy is important rather than just telling them.

 

Consistently brushing your teeth and flossing is fundamental to your oral health, and doing both will help you and your kids maintain your teeth between dental cleanings and checkups. Ideally, you should brush and floss after breakfast and dinner.

 

To ensure your children understand the importance of exceptional oral health, you can implement a daily routine. Start your routine by doing the following:
 

• Set aside time each day for brushing and flossing.

• Use your kids’ favorite songs as brushing timers.

• Do a silly dance to lighten the mood (works great for small children).

• Play videos on your smartphone to pass time.

• Use a toothbrushing app to help your kids keep track of their brushing and flossing habits.
   

By taking these steps, you can make brushing and flossing a fun activity your kids will look forward to.
 

Caring for Infant Teeth

You can maintain your baby’s oral health relatively easily. If your child doesn’t have teeth yet, you can wipe their gums twice daily using a soft cloth or silicon finger sleeve. When their teeth begin to come in, you can start brushing them twice daily with a soft toothbrush and water. It is important to consult your baby’s dentist before attempting to incorporate fluoride toothpaste into their oral health routine.
 

Improving Toddler Oral Health

In addition to implanting a consistent oral health routine for your toddler, you will want to limit their sugar intake to prevent gum disease and cavities. Children who regularly indulge in sugary juices, soft drinks, and desserts are far more likely to damage their teeth over time. During this time in your child’s life, you will want to make sure you are using fluoride toothpaste to prevent cavities. Having your dentist apply a dental sealant to the chewing surfaces of your child’s teeth can prevent up to 80% of cavities.
 

Get a Comprehensive Children’s Oral Health Guide