When it comes to establishing great oral healthcare routines with your child it's never to early! Your child's oral healthcare routine should include regular visits to their dentist. Here, our children's dentists share some ideas for how to help make oral health fun for your little one.
You are starting positive habits that will last their whole life, when you teach your children to take good care of their teeth. It's unrealistic to expect young children to create their own effective dental care routine. It's up to you to help them learn these good habits, and the sooner you get them started, the sooner your child will establish a strong oral hygiene routine.
Brushing & Flossing For Kids
Children and adults should at least brush twice a day - in the morning and before bed. Brushing should begin as soon as your child's first teeth appear and flossing can begin once they have two teeth side by side. When they can brush and floss for themselves, you can let them take over the job.
Teach your child about cavities and gum disease from a young age. Explain how to prevent cavities by flossing and brushing to keep plaque under control.
Visiting The Dentist Early
By their first birthday or within 6 months after their first tooth comes in your child should begin seeing the dentist. The goal is to have your child visit the dentist before there is a problem with their teeth and get them used to attending regular appointments.
A dental exam every six months will let your child's dentist catch small problems early.
You will also be able to speak with your dentist about fluoride treatments for children, if your drinking water is not fluoridated.
Ideas For Making Oral Health Fun
Here are a few ideas to help keep your child excited about good oral care.
- Find out if their favourite TV character has a special on oral health. They might enjoy watching the show and take away a lesson at the end of it.
- Books are a also a great way to introduce the concepts of tooth brushing and flossing, and they can help to get children comfortable with the idea of visiting the dentist. Check out your local library or bookstore to see what they have on the shelf.
- Surprise your child after a dental appointment with some fun family time, or a reward for good behaviour, but be sure to steer clear of using sugary treats as rewards.
- Create a sticker chart for brushing and flossing. When your children brush and floss, they can place a sticker on the chart.
- Make brushing and flossing a family activity. By brushing together, you can set a good example and also that they are brushing well enough and long enough.
- Have your child come shopping with you and let them pick out proper dental care tools. Consider buying brushes, floss, tongue scrapers, and more.