Teach Your Kids the Benefits of Regular Oral Hygiene
Why Oral Hygiene Matters for Kids
Good oral hygiene is not only important for adults, it’s also really important for kids! While it may seem like a tedious chore, proper brushing and flossing are essential components of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Not only that but instilling these habits at an early age can help lead to better dental health later in life. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), “It’s never too early or too late to begin taking care of your child’s teeth…the key is prevention—stop cavities before they start!” Taking preventive steps now can save money on dental care costs down the line as well as keep your little ones’ smiles at their best throughout their lives.
Establish Good Habits Early On
When it comes to establishing good oral health habits with kids, starting early is key! As soon as baby teeth emerge (usually around six months old), you should begin gently cleaning them off with a wet washcloth or gauze pad after feedings and before bedtime (ADA). Once two teeth grow side by side, you can use an infant toothbrush with water or a small smear of toothpaste until they turn three years old; you should then switch over to using a pea-sized amount instead. You should also supervise your child while they brush until they have mastered proper technique around age 7 or 8 (ADA). Additionally, be sure that any toys used during brushing time are safe enough for little hands so that there aren’t any choking hazards involved; if needed, invest in a kid’s’ toothbrush with a suction cup base, so it’s easier to hold and use.
Regular Visits to the Dentist
Regular visits to the dentist are another important part of establishing good oral hygiene habits for children from an early age. The ADA recommends that your child visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears; this will help get them on track for regular cleanings and checkups as they grow older. During these visits, your child’s dentist can monitor their growth and development, look for any potential problems, provide guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques, and answer any questions you may have about your little one’s oral health care routine (ADA).
Tips For Getting Kids Excited About Oral Hygiene
It can be hard to get kids excited about taking care of their teeth, but there are some things parents can do to make it fun! Letting them pick out their own toothbrush with a design they enjoy or allowing them to choose between different types of toothpaste flavors can help make brushing more enjoyable. You should also try making up games around brushing time, such as playing music while they brush or having them pretend like they’re scrubbing away dirt from each tooth; if all else fails, rewarding them with stickers or small (non-edible!) treats after brushing might be enough motivation too!
The importance of teaching children good oral hygiene habits cannot be overstated. At Pediatric Dental Care of Jersey City, located in the heart of Jersey City, NJ, we believe that a lifetime habit begins with early education – essential for establishing lifelong healthy smiles. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing your family with the best possible dental care while educating you on how to maintain optimal health through proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as regular checkups. We invite you to join us in our mission to foster healthy smiles throughout our community by teaching your children the basics of good oral hygiene today!
