Sure, they might not thank you now, but trust us when we say that taking meticulous care of your child’s oral hygiene is for the best. But how do you do it? Every child & every situation is different, but there are some methods that work for many parents when it comes to their children’s dental care.
Good Oral Hygiene Basics
The simplest ways to care for your child’s teeth are the same as the ones for your own teeth. Childhood is the best time to develop good, healthy habits & tooth care habits are no different. Kids should brush twice a day, floss once a day & visit the dentist every six months. Be sure to demonstrate proper brushing & flossing techniques to your child. While any brushing & flossing is better than none at all, they should still do it thoroughly! We’re always willing to demonstrate a good home hygiene routine during an appointment if you need help or think it could help your child.
Assist Your Child
Until your child is old enough to brush their own teeth—for most children, this is around six years old—you will have to brush & floss for them. Even before teeth start to erupt, or emerge, from the gums, you can still clean their mouths with a clean, damp cloth after feeding. Once the teeth do start to emerge, it is important to begin brushing & flossing. This is also when you should schedule your child’s first dentist appointment & start visiting regularly. Keeping on top of at-home dental hygiene & dentist visits can help kids develop & maintain good dental care habits on top of keeping their teeth clean when they can’t do it themselves. Brushing & flossing your child’s teeth can sometimes be difficult, so please let us know during your visits if you’re having trouble with at-home dental care. We will be happy to give advice to make it easier.
Lead By Example
One thing you can do regardless of age is lead by example. You should be brushing & flossing every day for more than just your own oral health. Younger children often want to do what their parents do, so if you maintain a regular routine of dental hygiene, your child may also want to. If you make it seem fun, this method can be even more effective. When your child is old enough to brush on their own, you may want to try brushing your teeth at the same time. Brushing your teeth together helps to reinforce the importance of dental care, so we highly recommend it.
We Are Here To Help With Your Child’s Oral Hygiene
Make sure to reach out by phone or during your appointment if you need any assistance making certain your child is staying healthy. We love helping children stay on top of their oral hygiene! Plus, it is always a good idea to check in with your child’s dentist if you’re having difficulty keeping up with your child’s dental care or notice something unusual.
