When it Comes to Your Child’s Dental Hygiene, Every Method Matters
We all want our children to have healthy teeth, but getting kids to maintain a healthy smile can be easier said than done; trust us, we know! Keeping your children’s teeth in top shape doesn’t have to be a burdensome task. With a comprehensive approach to kids’ dental hygiene, your child can enjoy a healthy smile and even have some fun along the way!
Pick the right toothpaste. The right toothpaste can make all the difference. Fluoride toothpaste, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC,) is recommended for pediatric dental hygiene, with the amount needed varying by age. For children under the age of 6, the CDC recommends just a pea-sized amount of toothpaste that the child should spit out after brushing. You can consult a list of approved toothpastes to make sure you’re making the right choice for your child.
- Make flossing fun. Getting children to floss can be tough, but it’s really important for kids’ dental hygiene. Children should start flossing when their teeth start to come in close together, usually between the ages of 2-6. Oral-B describes the basic steps when helping your child floss, but making a game out of it can help make the process smoother. You can make a sticker chart to reward flossing, floss with your children, or even make it a fun competition.
- Eat the right foods. Diet is an important part of pediatric dental hygiene, and the right foods can go a long way for your kids’ teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends foods that are rich in fluoride and low in sugar to help prevent cavities from forming. Fresh fruits, fresh veggies, and certain dairy products are some of the foods your children can eat to protect their teeth. The ADA’s list of best fluoride foods is a great place to start when you’re making your next grocery list.
- Bring the fun to brushing, too! It may seem like a chore, but brushing teeth can be a fun activity for kids if you put the right spin on it. Online games can be both entertaining and educational as they teach kids the importance of healthy brushing habits and kids’ dental hygiene. Colgate’s Kids Corner has fun games and puzzles that can make brushing fun for your child. Many parents will also sing songs, set a timer, or foster some friendly competition between siblings to encourage brushing. You can also use storytime to your advantage, incorporating your children’s favorite characters and heroes as they fight cavity monsters and save the day.
- Visit the dentist regularly. This might seem like a no-brainer, but regular dental visits are crucial for kids’ dental hygiene. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, kids should be getting their dental checkup every six months. Before you schedule your next appointment, check out how we make dental visits fun and empower kids to take responsibility for their teeth.
Practicing the right tips, good kids’ dental hygiene is both achievable and fun! So before you schedule your next appointment, try out some of these tips and tricks to help your kids keep their smile healthy and strong.