Teaching Your Children the Importance of Good Oral Hygiene
December 29, 2015
A lifetime of good oral health starts when kids are still young. Teaching your children early on how to take care of their teeth is a skill that will serve them well for the rest of their life, ensuring that their pretty, pearly teeth will last well into adulthood. Since children aren;t born learning how to take care of their teeth, or even being particularly inclined to do so, it’s up to the adults in their lives – parents, health teachers and their dentist in Wincester, CA – to teach them how to do so properly. Here are some tips you can use to get your children on the road to good oral health.
Brush and Floss Together
Kids don’t learn how to brush and floss their teeth from a pamphlet or from hearing instructions; they need to see how to do it and have someone help correct their mistakes. Brush and floss alongside your kids. It sets a good example and ensures that they do it correctly.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Get a checkup by a dentist at least every six months, or more often if recommended. A dentist can help catch cavities and tooth decay early, as well as other problems like the need for orthodontic work.
Teach Them about Eating Right
The right food can go a long way towards ensuring that your kids’ teeth are healthy. Limit sugar and starch, as these can cause bacteria to build up in the mouth. Ensure that kids drink plenty of water to help clean their mouths naturally
Use Fluoride
Speaking of water, the kind you are using ought to be fluoridated to prevent tooth decay. If the water in your area doesn’t contain fluoride, consider using a mouthwash or other supplement.
If you want to know more about pediatric dentistry and how to keep your kids’ teeth healthy, schedule an appointment with Dr. Glenn L. Sperbeck today.