Good dental health is crucial for your child’s overall health and well-being. The habits that children acquire when they are young will also set them up for a lifetime of behavior, for good or for ill. Fortunately, it’s not too difficult to make sure that your child develops good dental habits and takes good care of their teeth. Here are a few tips to help you get your children started on a lifetime of beautiful smiles.
Let Them Choose Their Own Toothbrush
Your child will feel that brushing their teeth is more fun when they have some control over the situation. That means letting them pick their own toothbrush. Luckily, there are many toothbrushes out there now with fun characters, colors, and styles. Let them pick whichever one they want as long as it’s the right size for their teeth.
Make Brushing Fun
To keep your child happy while they brush regularly, add a song. Sing the same song each time that you brush. This fun routine will really help.
Use a Child-Size Dental Floss Device
Flossing is even more important than just brushing your teeth, but people often forget this step. Teach your children just how important flossing is by practicing it regularly. Choose dental floss that fits inside of their mouth comfortably, and let your kids watch instructional videos about the right way to floss their teeth. Then, practice it at least twice every day.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
You child should know that going to the dentist is a normal activity that’s done at least once every year. Find a local dentist that makes your child comfortable and has a proven track record of success. For example, if you need a dentist in Elk Grove village IL, look for one with a good reputation like those found at Dentist IL. Make your child comfortable with the visit by reading a book about a character that they like visiting the dentist before you go.
Use Fluoride Daily
Although there is some controversy surrounding the use of fluoride on drinking water, every dental professional agrees that fluoride is good for teeth. Get a prescription from either your dentist or your pediatrician for fluoride supplements that your child can take every night. Fluoride works best to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities before they occur, so it’s never too early to start.