Top Tips for Improving Your Child’s Oral Health

Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing is something most everyone knows they need to do. Healthy habits are best introduced early, and that’s why it’s important that we get our children’s dental hygiene routine started as soon as possible. Teeth and gum development can be a factor in your child’s health for the rest of their lives.

Here are some great tips to getting your child’s teeth to be the cleanest they can be.

See a Dentist You and Your Child Can Trust

It’s not enough that you go to a dentist that you like. Your child needs to have positive experiences at the dentist, or they can begin to associate bad feelings with their oral hygiene! As the professionals at Vellore Dentistry have said, “our team members at Vellore Dentistry take time to make a child’s experience pleasant so that we can build trust.”

If your child likes their dentist, they will be more inclined to enjoy visiting the dentist. In turn, it means they will end up listening to the dentist’s recommendations on their oral hygiene.

Schedule These Dental Visits Regularly

Most professionals agree that you should schedule your baby’s first dentist’s appointment when they are a year old. They should continue to see the dentist every six months after this. This is so their teeth get regular cleanings and to check for cavities, tooth decay, or any other issues in their teeth’s development.

Oral Health Doesn’t Start with Baby Teeth!

Before your baby even grows their first tooth, you should be wiping their gums with a damp cloth to remove any harmful bacteria or particles. Once the first tooth grows in, you can use a baby toothbrush to scrub the teeth. Make sure to use non-fluoridated toothpaste so your baby won’t swallow anything harmful.

Flossing Is Important

You can begin flossing when the teeth begin to grow right next to each other. This should be at around 2-3 years old. You can ask your dentist for advice on whether or not your toddler’s teeth will require flossing if you’re not sure.

Encourage Your Child to Do It Themselves

Once your toddler is at about two years of age, you may want to encourage them to brush their teeth by themselves. They can begin to take pride in their routine and feel like an adult when you give them this task. Providing them with fun-flavored toothpaste and a toothbrush with their favorite character on it can make their routine even more fun.

When your child learns to spit, that’s when they can begin using fluoridated toothpaste. This better prevents tooth decay and cavities.

You should supervise your child when they begin to do this by themselves. Make sure that they spend at least two minutes brushing around every part of their mouth. Brush your teeth at the same time as them to encourage the habit. You can also set a good example for them. Chances are, they want to be like you.

Monitor Sugar Intake

Having too much sugar in your kid’s diet can lead to cavities and gum disease if you’re not careful. Make sure that your child knows that sugary drinks and snacks can lead to consequences with their teeth. Sugary snacks and soda should just be a treat every once in a while, not for every day.

Educate Your Child on The Importance of Dental Health Today!

Getting your baby started early on taking care of their teeth can benefit them in the long run. Visits to the dentist will be more pleasant, and there is a lesser chance of developing toothaches, cavities, or gum disease. Encouraging your child to be healthy can even help you develop healthy habits as well, so get started today!