How to Encourage Your Child To Develop Healthy Dental Habits
Teaching Good Dental Hygiene to Kids for a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles
At Maynard Family Dentists, we’re dedicated to providing you with the resources and tips to ensure your little ones are excited about maintaining excellent dental hygiene!
Starting Dental Hygiene Practices Early
When Should Dental Hygiene Practices Begin?
Initiate dental care for your baby right from day one. After each feeding, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a washcloth and warm water.
Teething and Solid Foods
As your baby grows, introducing teething and solid foods requires a shift in care. Use a silicone finger brush and warm water after meals. Once the first tooth appears, introduce a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (no larger than a grain of rice) and brush twice daily.
First Pediatric Dental Appointment
Schedule your baby’s initial pediatric dental appointment between the eruption of the first tooth (around 6 to 8 months) and their first birthday. This thorough exam ensures your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth are healthy, while also familiarizing them with the dental environment.
Making Dental Care Exciting for Kids
Let Them Choose Their Tools
Explore department stores for unique, colored, and character toothbrushes. Involve your child in picking their own toothbrush and soft-bristled options. Allow them to choose exciting toothpaste flavors like strawberry and bubblegum.
Engage in Dental Games
Download kid-friendly oral health apps with educational games on the App Store. Encourage pretend play, where your child can act as a dentist for their stuffed animals, practicing brushing and flossing. Turn brushing into a game with plaque-disclosing tablets to make it interactive and fun.
Music and Fun Timers
Play your child’s favorite songs or upbeat music during brushing time. Use kid-friendly timers from the App Store, allowing them to choose themes or characters that pop up when the timer completes. This ensures they brush for the recommended 2 minutes.
With these engaging tips, you’re on your way to making dental care an exciting and essential part of your child’s routine. Establishing these habits early ensures they’re set for a lifetime of healthy smiles! For more information on caring for your child’s teeth, explore additional resources at the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Contact our office to schedule a dental appointment for your little one today!
Learn More About Pediatric Dentistry