We all know the importance of practicing good dental hygiene. This is especially crucial for young children. It’s a good idea to instill good dental habits in your kids as early as you can.
As well as this, a child’s teeth are constantly changing and growing. This is why you need to keep a close eye on them when they’re at this stage. With good dental planning, you can prevent issues that have the potential to become much worse down the line.
If you’d like to learn some of the most important things to teach your kid so they grow up with a beautiful smile and great dental habits, read on.
1. Make Teeth Brushing Fun
Because your kids are, well, kids, it’s natural that they might not find brushing their teeth twice a day to be the most fun activity in the world. That’s ok! It’s your job as a parent to make sure it’s something they prioritize, and you can do this by making it more fun.
Try playing songs for them that indicate the optimal brushing time, using light-up toothbrushes, or rewarding them if they keep up their brushing routine for a whole week (but not with anything sugary!).
2. Focus on Flossing
Flossing is something that’s super important, but that many Americans aren’t too good at doing. In fact, about one-third of Americans never floss. If you don’t want your kids to fall into this category when they grow up, emphasize the importance of having a regular flossing routine when they’re young.
3. Teach the Techniques
Brushing your teeth and brushing your teeth correctly are two different things. If you teach your kids to brush, but not the proper technique to use, then you may as well not have taught them at all. Make sure they
- Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums
- Gently move the brush back and forth in short strokes
- Brush for two full minutes
4. Food Matters
Part of a good oral hygiene routine is being mindful of the foods and drinks that can cause damage to teeth. Make sure your kids are aware of the consequences of drinking sugary, fizzy drinks and teeth-staining foods. Try to ensure they consume these things only in moderation.
5. Think About Interventions
You should have an idea about what road you want to take in the event that your child has some sort of dental issue. For example, would you be happy to fit them with braces for kids? This is a decision both you and your child will need to make together, but it’s good to think about in advance.
Good Dental Planning Practices
The aim of good dental planning is to ensure you help your child to build the most healthy dental habits possible. Be sure to educate them well, make sure they brush each and every day, and work together with them to solve any dental issues they might be facing. If you’ve enjoyed this guide, don’t forget to peruse our other similar articles.
