A lifetime of oral health begins at the beginning, with young children learning proper dental hygiene habits from an early age. Your child’s teeth serve several important purposes from eating to speech development. The baby teeth set the stage for the permanent teeth, which is why it is important to prioritize dental health from the start.
Dental hygiene should be a family priority, and in this article you will learn the best dental hygiene habits for families with young children from a leading family dentistry practice.
The Connection Between Oral Health and General Wellness
An increasingly popular stance on oral health is that it has a strong correlation with overall health and well-being. Numerous studies have linked tooth decay and gum disease to serious health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. While these are more common in adults, the negative impact of poor oral health can begin in early childhood. The good news is that it’s not too late to establish good dental hygiene habits.
Top Dental Hygiene Habits for Families
By following these tips you and your family can make dental hygiene a part of your daily routine.
- Brush twice a day. A good place to start is with brushing your teeth once in the morning and once at night. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. For young children, use a tiny dot of toothpaste until they are able to spit it out effectively. Help your children with brushing until they are able to do it independently.
- Floss once a day. It is also important to floss between all of your teeth on a daily basis. Children should start flossing once they have two or more teeth that are close enough that a toothbrush can’t fit between them. Flossing sticks can make it easier for young children.
- Eat healthy. Encourage your child to eat a nutrient-rich diet that is low in sugar. This is good for oral health as well as overall health. Crunchy fruits and vegetables and dairy products like cheese are tooth-friendly.
- Get regular dental checkups. Schedule oral evaluations and cleanings twice a year or every 6 months. Professional teeth cleanings remove plaque and tartar from the teeth to prevent cavities and gum disease. Oral evaluations assess the general health of your mouth and detect any potential concerns that should be addressed.
Making Dental Hygiene a Family Priority
As parents of young children, you set the example for oral health. By modeling good dental hygiene habits, you are showing your children the importance of keeping your teeth and mouth healthy.
There are plenty of ways to make dental hygiene fun for the kids, such as:
- Use a fun song that is at least 2 minutes long to encourage brushing for the recommended length of time.
- Use a toothbrush timer video that everyone can watch while brushing.
- Let your children pick out their own toothbrush with a beloved character or color.
- Read books together about dental hygiene.
- Keep a chart and have children place a sticker each time they brush their teeth. Once they reach a certain date or number of stickers, provide a reward.
Get Started Today
By reading this article, you have already taken the first step toward promoting dental hygiene in your family. Now it’s time to put these tips into practice. Start by scheduling dental check-ups for everyone at R. Renan Williams DDS. Then begin your brushing and flossing routine today. The next time you get groceries, consider buying healthier snacks and limiting sugary treats. Take the kids along and let them pick out their brand new toothbrush. As long as you’re enthusiastic, they will be too.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Hygiene
How often should children go to the dentist?
Dental appointments are recommended every 6 months for optimal oral health. This allows for the removal of plaque and tartar before cavities and gum disease can develop in most cases. It also promotes early detection of oral health concerns.
My child often falls asleep before brushing at night. What should I do?
Consider having your child brush their teeth earlier, such as right after dinner. That way, if they get tired early, they will have already brushed. It is best to avoid eating after brushing at night.
Renan Williams DDS is a family dental practice providing comprehensive care for patients of all ages. We are dedicated to improving oral health for families through routine care and other dental services. Contact us today to learn more about our practice and to schedule appointments for the whole family in one convenient location.