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Many parents assume that because their child’s baby teeth won’t last forever, taking care of them isn’t important. In fact, any kids dentist will tell you that dental care starts before the first baby tooth erupts, and it should be made a priority early on so that kids can learn the importance of good oral hygiene. Children with teeth that have decay or plaque buildup are at a higher risk of their adult teeth growing in incorrectly or developing cavities, so it’s crucial to bring them to a pediatric dentist before their first birthday and keep up with dental care between visits. 

3 Child Dental Care Tips to Avoid Tooth Decay

1. Instill Proper Habits

Kids learn by example how to care for their teeth, so it’s vital that parents instill proper oral care habits from an early age. Parents should equip their kids with the tools they need to avoid tooth decay and plaque buildup, like a child-sized toothbrush and floss that is easy to hold. Parents can also give children a small timer to help them learn to brush for a full two minutes. This is also the time to show them the correct brushing and flossing techniques — brushing in small circles and flossing carefully between each tooth.

2. Encourage Healthy Eating

dental careThe food that your child puts in their mouth plays an important role in their oral health. Food and drinks with sugar can rot their teeth from the inside out, creating decay that can affect the health of their adult teeth. Candy, gum, and soda can wreak havoc on the dental health of your children, so encourage them to drink lots of water and milk and to eat fruits and vegetables that promote the growth of plaque-busting bacteria. 

3. Visit the Dentist

While at-home remedies are effective and play a massive role in keeping your child’s teeth clean and healthy, it’s also important to supplement these habits with regular visits to the dentist. Parents should start the routine from an early age so that children can build a rapport with their dentist and start to feel comfortable at each visit. Kids should come in before their first birthday and every six months from then on. 

 

If you’re looking for a qualified pediatric dentist on Oahu and Maui, HI, consider the team at Pedodontic Associates Inc. For 25 years, this group of knowledgeable and friendly kids dentists has offered their expertise to local parents to help them achieve optimal oral health for their children. For more information, visit them online or give them a call in Honolulu at (808) 735-1733, (808) 487-7933 for their Aiea location, and (808) 877-0066 for Kahului.

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