5 Things to Teach Your Kids About Dental Care
websitebuilder • April 26, 2017
Little children have a natural curiosity about the world around them, and that extends to their own bodies. Dental health can be interesting to kids if it's approached in the right way. Start by embracing your own dental care habits and share that enthusiasm with your children.
Learn 5 things you can do to help your children get started on the right path with their dental care.
Taking Great Care of One's Teeth Can Be Fun
Put the fun in fundamental dental care habits. It's okay for something as serious as dental health to also be fun, and children will be more willing to embrace it if they enjoy taking care of their teeth. Start with things like letting kids pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste. Having a character they love on a toothbrush or toothpaste container can make a difference.
The fun continues with the actual dental care, too. For example, put on a "toothbrushing soundtrack" each night where you and your kids listen to songs related to smiles. Have daily traditions like story time right after your children brush their teeth. You may also give out a sticker each night if your children do all their dental care tasks without being asked.
Tough Love Isn't for Teeth
Although you want kids to thoroughly brush their teeth, let them know it's important to be gentle with one's teeth and gums. If you brush your teeth too aggressively, it can even lead to the formation of ulcers or sores. Some children may get overly enthusiastic or try to finish brushing their teeth in a hurry by brushing too hard. Always stop them and talk about gentle care instead.
Technique and Time Matters
Teaching children the right way to brush can help them develop proper dental habits to carry through life. According to the American Dental Association, adults and children alike should brush their teeth twice per day. Children should use a soft-bristled brush and brush for approximately two minutes each time. Once per day they should also floss between teeth and use a kid-safe mouthwash.
The best way to teach proper dental care is simply to make it a series of daily habits that are done as pleasantly as possible. Your children should be brushing their teeth twice each day, and it's easier for most family routines for this to take place in the morning and before bedtime. Set aside plenty of time so that dental habits don't feel rushed or frustrating for kids.
Going to the Dentist Regularly is Essential
Take your children for regular dental check-ups at least once every six months to prevent cavities. These regular appointments also teach your kids that dentists are their ally in obtaining optimal dental health, and children are more likely to continue seeing dentists regularly as adults if it's simply a part of their life as they grow up.
Keep Learning and Improving
As an adult, you may not have it all figured out when it comes to dental care. It's okay to admit when you don't know the best way to do something. Ask for help from your dentist or rely on trusted, science-based sources. In an age where anyone can find harmful misconceptions about dental care online, it's important for children to learn where they can get the information they trust.
Taking optimal care of one's teeth is work-in-progress at any age. Continue to improve and be positive with how you talk about dental care with your children.
Rabel Family Dentistry
strives to provide optimal dental care for all members of the family, and we are happy to partner with parents in helping little ones develop healthy habits.
