Keeping up good oral health for life is a struggle for many people as they begin to advance in age. Unfortunately, this is often because they were not taught about keeping up good oral health for life as children. In order to set your kids up for a lifetime of dental health, it is important to establish healthy habits for the family as early as possible. You will be doing your children a huge service by helping prevent serious dental problems later in their lives.
Keeping Up Good Oral Health for Life at The Dentist’s Office
Most parents are diligent about taking their children for checkups at the pediatrician’s office, but they often neglect their child’s dental health when they are young. Parents often assume that, because baby teeth fall out, they do not require the same care as adult teeth. However, neglecting baby teeth can lead to gum damage that will eventually impact your child’s adult teeth. As soon as your children have started cutting teeth, it is a good idea to visit a dentist just so they can begin getting comfortable with oral health practices.
Watch What They Eat
All kids love sugary treats and there is nothing wrong with that if they are enjoyed in moderation. However, too much sugar in their diet can cause damage to their teeth, both as babies and when they have adult teeth. Start them out with healthy habits by limiting the amount of sugar they ingest daily. Remember that sugar is not limited to candy but can often be found in their snacks and juices as well. Establishing a low sugar diet early in life will benefit every aspect of your child’s health as they mature.
Make It Fun
As with anything concerning children, you will have the best results if you can find ways to make it fun. Get an interesting timer that children can use to make sure they are brushing for long enough and purchase a toothbrush that features their favorite character. Some parents even play a song that their children enjoy and tell the kids that they must continue brushing for the entire duration of the song. Reward healthy dental habits so that children are motivated to continue with them as they grow older and have more control over their own hygiene.
Keeping up with oral hygiene for life does not have to be a challenge for your child. Simply establish healthy habits early, such as regular dental visits to a Granville, OH dentist, and your children will be on the right path! For more information about our dental services, please click here.