Good dental hygiene must begin early in childhood. Accordingly, it’s up to parents to ensure their children understand proper dental care as soon as possible. This entails many steps, from undergoing regular teeth cleanings to eating the right foods. Here are a few tips to help make the process easier. 

How Can I Help My Child Avoid Tooth Decay?

1. Supervise Brushing & Flossing

Toddlers will need help brushing and flossing. Most kids can perform dental care on their own by age 8, but you’ll still want to supervise. Make sure your child is brushing for at least two minutes at a time and covering all tooth surfaces evenly. Flossing is equally important and should happen once a day. 

2. Set a Good Example

In the same token, make sure you’re caring for your own teeth. Your children look to you as a role model, and if you’re lax about teeth cleaning or visiting the dentist, they’ll exhibit the same behavior. You can even make dental care a family affair by brushing and flossing alongside your kids. 

3. Avoid Sugary Treats

Kids love sugary drinks and foods. However, these items contribute to tooth decay, especially when dental care is lacking. When your kids drink soda or fruit juice, make sure they drink it quickly as opposed to sipping. Then, tell them to rinse their mouth with water or brush their teeth. Whenever possible, replace sugary snacks with naturally sweetened fruits and vegetables.

4. Visit the Dentist Regularly

Kids should visit the dentist twice a year for teeth cleanings. Not only will this ensure your child is aware of the importance of proper dental care, but it can also allow your dentist to identify any potential issues. This includes problems with crowding or misaligned teeth, which need to be addressed by an orthodontist. 

If your child needs a teeth cleaning, Family First Dentistry is here to help. Located in Anchorage, AK, this team of skilled dental professionals can help you instill the importance of good oral hygiene in your kids from an early age. They offer many other essential services, including orthodontics, treatment of gum disease, root canals, dental implants, and teeth whitening. They also offer sedation dentistry, which is ideal for patients experiencing anxiety about a particular procedure. Visit the website to learn more about preventative care, or call (907) 562-2820 to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one today.