Taking an active stance in your child’s oral hygiene instills good habits and promotes excellent dental health. Routine visits to La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry also help kids develop strong practices. The professionals at the Wisconsin office have extensive experience working with children, and they’ll set you child on the path to excellent oral health.

Great dental care habits begin early — before your infant’s first tooth even comes in. After feeding your baby, rub a damp cloth over the gums to prevent food buildup. As teeth begin to come in, use a soft toothbrush to gently brush at least twice a day. At around pre-school age, have your child use toothpaste that contains fluoride, which helps reduce the incidence of cavities. A small, pea-sized drop is all you need.

Diet also plays an important role in your child’s oral hygiene. You can take a proactive stance by helping your kid develop great eating habits early in life. Limit their intake of sugary sweets and beverages, which contribute to cavity development. Encourage snacks that benefit the teeth, such as calcium-rich cheese and leafy greens, along with carrots, apples, and celery — all of which are fibrous options that rinse away bacteria in the mouth.

One of the best things you can do for your child’s oral health is visit a pediatric dentist as early as their first birthday. A children’s dentist will carefully examine those first teeth and take a close look at the gums to determine the existence of any early problems. They will also go over proper methods for brushing teeth, as well as provide information on eating the right foods.

If you’re ready to start your child on the road to excellent oral hygiene, get in touch with the staff at La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry. For more information, visit their website, or call (608) 782-4054 to schedule an appointment.