Parents want the best for their children. That includes the clothes they wear, the food they eat, and the schools they attend. However, it also includes making sure they have healthy teeth and gums. When it comes to kids, the latter is incredibly important. After all, they usually eat too many sweets and don’t brush and floss as they should.

Help for Parents

No matter how hard parents try, it’s not always easy to watch everything their child eats. In addition, most kids make a stink about brushing and flossing. As a result, children develop cavities and other dental problems. These tips will make it easier for parents to ensure their kids have healthy teeth and gums.

Start Young

Even before a child’s first teeth appear, parents can start them on a path to good oral hygiene. For example, several times a day, they should wipe their gums with a clean, semi-warm, wet cloth. Most importantly, they want to do this after each bottle or feeding.

As soon as a baby’s teeth erupt, parents can clean them. All they need is a soft-bristled brush designed specifically for infants. At a young age, there’s no reason to use toothpaste. Instead, gentle brushing will suffice.

Make Brushing Fun

Most parents agree that it’s not easy to teach their kids to properly brush and floss several times a day. That’s because most children challenge them. However, it’s possible to make brushing and flossing fun. While kids enjoy the process, parents can stop worrying about their oral health as much. Here are some ways to accomplish that:
 

• Monkey See – Monkey Do – Parents can have their kids mimic how they brush and floss. Making silly faces, humming a song, and spitting in the sink can change a child’s perception
   

• Cool Toothbrush and Toothpaste – Let kids choose a toothbrush and toothpaste. Allowing them to experience a little independence will go a long way in encouraging them to take care of their teeth and gums. Even better, steer them in the direction of electric toothbrushes
   

• Set a Timer Followed by a Reward – Parents shouldn’t expect their kids to spend five minutes in the bathroom to brush and floss. For this, they’ll want to set a timer but initially for no more than 30 seconds. Slowly, they can add more time. By following through, parents can reward their children with a new book, video, or even a treat at the end of the week

Schedule Dental Appointments

Around 12 months of age, every parent should take their child to a dentist. To make the experience positive, they want to select a qualified and compassionate professional with experience in taking care of kids. That way, they’ll look forward to every visit going forward.

Excellent Dental Care

Pediatric Dental Group treats both adults and children. For the younger patients, the dentists and staff make visits fun and even educational. You can schedule an appointment today by calling one of our Hawaii dental clinics. For Honolulu, call 808-593-8828 and for Lihue, 808-245-2131.