Early dental care is crucial for your children’s overall health, which is why pediatric dentist Brandi Prather, DMD, PSC invites parents throughout Somerset, KY, to focus more carefully on their child’s daily oral hygiene routine. Unfortunately, even the most careful parents can still make mistakes, so read these three dental care tips for young smiles. 

What Are Some Dental Care Tips for Healthier Kids?

1. Visit Your Pediatric Dentist

Introducing your child to a pediatric dentist early on is crucial to help them to familiarize themselves with the dental care experience, so bring them in as soon as you notice their first tooth. If they are a late bloomer, the ADA recommends bringing them in as soon as they turn one. 

2. Offer Healthy Foods 

Healthy foods, like crunchy veggies, help your little one to naturally scrub away the kind of grime that contributes to tooth decay. When you plan your child’s meals for the day, focus on offering a variety of fruits, grains, and veggies. Avoid items that are filled with sugar and simple carbs since these choices fuel oral bacteria. 

3. Don’t Share Utensils 

Research has shown that oral bacteria can spread from parents to children, contributing to tooth decay. Avoid any practice that could cause saliva transfer, including sharing utensils, blowing on your child’s food, or letting them sip from your straw. Pediatric dentists also recommend avoiding kissing your child on the lips since this can also colonize their mouth with oral bacteria. 

Help your little one enjoy a healthier smile by scheduling an appointment for them today. The entire team at Brandi Prather, DMD, PSC is committed to making appointments fun and stress-free for kids, so your little one has nothing to worry about. To learn more about their practice, visit them online or call a pediatric dentist at (606) 679-5437.