Dental Tips for Parents to Keep their Child Teeth Healthy

Everyone knows that eating too much sugar is unhealthy for them, but few are aware of sugar’s negative effects on their teeth. According to studies, sugar consumption should be at most 10 percent of total food intake. Here are some dental tips for teaching your children about proper preventative care and the effects of sugar on teeth.

How Sugar Affects Teeth

Your mouth is filled with bacteria that love sugar from the moment you get your first tooth. Cavities are caused by the breakdown of tooth enamel caused by bacteria that convert sugar into acid.

Bacteria in our mouths absorb the sugar left on our teeth, forming a plaque. Eventually, plaque will erode the enamel of your teeth. Untreated dental decay causes cavities and tooth loss.

Dental Tips for Parents

Instilling the importance of good dental hygiene in your children is your responsibility as a parent. They’ll remain healthy into adulthood if they’re taught proper oral hygiene.

The following dental advice will help you make dental care fun for your children while educating them at the same time:

Start Early

Brushing their teeth as soon as they erupt their first tooth is the best way to get them used to it. When they are between the ages of 2-3, place a pea-size amount of toothpaste on their toothbrush and guide them through the routine. Brushing your child’s teeth can be a fun experience when they learn how to do it themselves.

Set an Example

It all starts with you. Brushing your teeth twice daily in front of your child will encourage them to do the same. Establish a special routine for your child to look forward to and maintain consistency so that they will look forward to it.

Encourage Good Eating Habits

Children who aren’t exposed to sugary foods from an early age are more likely to eat well. This tip can reduce the risk of cavities and other long-term dental problems.

Make It Fun

A simple tip is to let your child pick their toothbrush and toothpaste. It can make them more excited about brushing their teeth. Young children can choose from many different types of flavored toothpaste, so you know they’ll enjoy whatever they pick. Additionally, numerous books and videos teach children the importance of brushing their teeth.

Preventative Dental Care Tips

Children develop habits that can be hard to break as they grow up. Educating children about dental care from an early age can have lifelong benefits. Here are a few ways in which preventive dental care can help you:

Routine Checkups

The dental cleanings your child receives at the dentist are very important for their oral health. In addition, the dentist will be able to catch any developing dental issues early and treat them before they get worse.

Healthy Habits

Sugary foods can cause tooth decay. Foods containing fewer vitamins and minerals can deplete the minerals and vitamins in your teeth. Choosing a healthier diet for your child will promote healthier teeth and gums.

Proper Flossing

Between 2 and 6, you should help your child floss their teeth daily once they begin to fit closely together. Make sure that the floss you choose for your child is soft and flexible to prevent damage to their teeth and gums.

Special Treatments

With the right care at home, dental treatments can help your child. Fluoride treatments from the dentist can help stop tooth decay when fluoride toothpaste is not enough.

Sealants can also protect your child’s teeth quickly and easily if they are prone to getting cavities. They often cover deep pits and grooves on the back teeth and stop more than 80% of cavities from happening.

Takeaway

Preventive dental care is the key to having a healthy smile. Teaching your kids early on about how sugar affects their teeth can improve their oral health.

Our goal is to give you and your child a warm, personalized experience and give you good dental advice. Contact us and take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile.