Taking care of the oral health of children is crucial for promoting their general health. The right dental hygiene starts at a young age to help reduce the occurrences of several problems and lay a healthy foundation for teeth and gums. Here are some tips that can be followed to maintain the oral health of the child in the best way possible. To learn more in detail, keep reading this guide till the end.
Establish a Routine
When it comes to dental care, regularity is the key. Your child should brush his or her teeth at least twice a day and floss in between those brushings. The heterogeneous routine will help develop this into a habit because it is not boring.
Give them toothbrushes with characters they love and flavored toothpaste to encourage them. To ensure they spend two minutes brushing, the child could be encouraged to sing a short song or use a timer. Also, supervising their brushing until they are around seven or eight years old will help in confirming that they are doing it right.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Dental check-ups are necessary for the proper care of oral hygiene. Bi-annual pediatric cleanings should be planned to make sure the child’s teeth are thoroughly cleaned and checked for any complications. These check-ups also let your child know the importance of oral hygiene as you get to talk to them about it.
During these visits, the dentist can also apply fluoride gel and varnish to the teeth and give guidance on the best ways to brush and floss. It is important to diagnose problems such as cavities or improperly aligned teeth as early as possible to avoid complicated problems in the future.
Protect Their Teeth
If your child is involved in sports, they should use a mouth guard to safeguard the teeth. Also, educate them to stop biting on hard substances such as ice or pencils that may result in tooth decay and the need for procedures such as dental tooth crowns. Explain why one should not use their teeth for cutting wires, opening packages, or biting nails. These protective habits can be reinforced to spare your child from painful and expensive dental disasters.
Educate About Oral Hygiene
Make sure your child understands the importance of good dental hygiene from a very young age. Illustrate the role of brushing and flossing in maintaining their teeth clean and free from the formation of plaque. Since children love games, you should harness this strength by using educational videos and books. Encourage positive behaviors with a reward system, like a chart that tracks their brushing and flossing based on stickers.
Healthy Eating Habits
Diet is one of the most influential factors for oral health. Reduce the consumption of sugary foods and beverages as these cause tooth decay. Promote the consumption of nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy foods that are crucial in promoting good dental health.
Fruits and vegetables that have a crisp texture like apples and carrots can be useful for washing the teeth and massaging the gums. The most preferred beverage should be water because it assists in rinsing the mouth and preventing cavities. Informing your child about the consequences of eating certain foods can help him make the right decision.
