As a parent, you want to make sure your children are getting the best possible medical care if they ever get sick, as well as all the right checkups to keep them healthy in the first place. But are you taking care of all their health needs? Dental care often goes overlooked, but this can leave your kids vulnerable to a variety of health issues. Use these tips to help take care of your children’s teeth and keep them happy and healthy.
- Healthy diet: Eating right is important for overall health, but contributes in a significant way to dental health in particular. Kids tend to eat more candy and sweets than they should, so it’s up to parents to limit these types of food. These can cause a variety of dental problems if consumed too frequently, including cavities and other issues.
- Brush correctly: You don’t have to be an expert in dentistry to know that brushing your teeth is a good habit to have. Make sure you’re modeling good brushing habits for your child at an early age and helping them brush their own teeth. Even if your child’s baby teeth will eventually fall out anyway as they grow, it’s still important to take care of them early. Baby teeth begin to grow around 6 months, so the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental office visit before your child’s first birthday.
- Careful with toothpaste: Toothpaste can sometimes be tricky with kids; either they don’t want to use it at all, or they use half the tube on a single brush. Use a small amount for children and show them yourself how much to use. However, avoid toothpaste for children age two and younger, as they get enough fluoride without toothpaste use.
- Regular checkups: The most important thing you can do as a parent to help take care of your children’s teeth is schedule regular visits to the dentist. Consistent checkups will help you spot dental problems early and get your children the care they need sooner to keep them healthy.
Looking to schedule a pediatric dentist appointment for your children? Contact us today to find a dentist office near you.
