Helping your child develop outstanding oral habits early can help them avoid serious problems with their teeth in the future. From teaching proper techniques for daily oral hygiene to ensuring they get regular preventive dental care, parents have a responsibility to help their kids maintain healthy mouths and bright smiles. 

Brushing & Flossing 

Teaching your kids how to properly brush and floss when they’re young does more than give them important life skills. Baby teeth help keep their jaws aligned, hold space for permanent teeth, and help kids develop important skills like chewing and talking. Therefore, it’s just as important to care for these teeth as it is to care for adult ones.

Parents should start oral hygiene by cleaning their baby’s gums with a soft cloth or baby toothbrush. Brushing with baby-safe toothpaste should begin as soon as the first tooth appears, and parents should start flossing once the child has teeth that are in contact with each other, usually around age 2. Parents should brush and floss their child’s teeth until they’re about 8 years old, or you’re confident that they’re brushing all their teeth adequately. 

Dental Visits

In addition to daily oral hygiene, children should see their dentist for preventive dental care twice per year, starting at 18 months old. During these visits, the dentist will examine your child’s teeth and gums for signs of problems, take X-rays if needed to ensure that their teeth are coming in as they should, and perform a professional cleaning. Cleanings are especially important, as they remove any plaque buildup on the teeth that could lead to decay or gum disease. 

Preventive dental care for children may also involve fluoride treatments or the application of sealants to help strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities. Your dentist will discuss these options with you and help you determine what your child needs. 

Nutrition

Ensuring healthy teeth also means giving your kids proper nutrition. Limiting or avoiding sugary drinks or snacks is very important for reducing the risk of tooth decay; offer water to drink instead, as it’s healthier and often contains fluoride that can help reduce the risk of cavities. Nuts, cheese, raw fruits and vegetables are good snack options that won’t cause decay.

If you need a dentist to care for your family’s teeth, turn to Drs Emery & Scuro DMD, PC of Rochester, NY.  For more than 35 years, they’ve served local families, providing comprehensive general, cosmetic dentistry, and preventive dental care. They also offer orthodontic services. Learn more about the practice on their website and call (585) 247-7110 to schedule a convenient appointment.