When it comes to instilling good oral hygiene habits in your children, it’s never too early to start. If you help your child maintain healthy teeth and gums from a young age, he or she is more likely to have good dental health as an adult. Here are some of the do’s and don’ts of dental care for children.

Do:

Visit the Dentist Early.

Experts recommend taking your child for a dental checkup as soon as he or she turns one. This way, they will become accustomed to seeing a dentist early and will likely be less nervous about future visits. A dentist will also give you sound advice on how to properly take care of your child’s teeth and gums.

Limit Pacifiers. 

While pacifiers can be necessary for kids when they’re very young, they shouldn’t use them too long. Pacifiers can put their mouth in an unnatural position, causing bite problems and crooked teeth. Wean your child off pacifiers once he or she starts talking.

Monitor Brushing.

Kids may need additional help and monitoring with brushing until they are about seven or eight years old. Make sure your child brushes twice a day and does it for a full two minutes each time.

Don’t:

Create Unhealthy Eating Habits.

What your child eats can play a big role in his or her dental health, so it’s important to teach your little one healthy eating habits. If you let your child have candy and others sweets all the time, it can increase the risk of decay. Instead, give your kid tooth-friendly foods, like apples, carrots, and cheese.

Slack on Your Own Oral Health.

If you want to teach your child good oral hygiene, you have to be diligent about your own dental care. Let your child see you brush and floss your teeth twice a day and eat foods that are good for your teeth so they’ll follow by example.

Instill Fear About Dental Procedures.

If your child isn’t doing a good job with brushing and flossing, resist the urge to talk about the scary dental procedures he or she will need. Instead, reiterate how good dental habits will keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy and praise your little one when he or she cooperates. 

By following these pointers, you can keep your child’s mouth in good shape. The professionals at Lowitz & Meier in Cincinnati, OH, have experience treating kids and can help them with all their dental care needs. Whether your child needs a routine cleaning or root canal, the dentists at the family dentistry practice will help your little one feel comfortable. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 521-8900 or visit their website for more information.