Here are several oral health habits you should help your child establish when they are young!
Brush Teeth Twice a Day & Floss Daily
One of the most beneficial habits for a child to learn early on is to brush their teeth twice a day, once in the morning when they wake up and again at night before bed. Encourage them to brush in gentle, circular strokes across all surfaces of their teeth for two minutes. Babies, toddlers, and young children will need their parents to brush their teeth for them. Depending on their level of maturity, physical development, and any special needs, your child may be ready to brush their own teeth with supervision around age 5-7. As soon as they have 2 teeth touching, your child will benefit from daily flossing.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
Guide your child to develop a positive relationship with food. Allow them to learn how to consume sweets in moderation. Expose them to a balanced variety of foods. Some of our favorite healthy snack options for kids include:
Drink Plenty of Water
Encourage your child to drink plenty of water every day, especially instead of soda or soda. Water helps give the body energy, reduces cravings, and prevents dry mouth.
Regularly Visit the Dentist
We understand that dental visits can feel scary and intimidating for kids. However, becoming accustomed to routine dental visits early on means they will be more likely to continue these visits, which will contribute to good oral health through adulthood. Finding a compassionate dentist who can accommodate your child’s unique needs and appreciate their personality will show your child that going to the dentist can be a positive experience!
At Paris Mountain Dental, we provide comprehensive dental services and accept patients of all ages. We also offer family block scheduling so we can schedule family members at the same appointment time or back-to-back for your convenience. Please contact us to schedule an appointment for your child!