Children need to develop healthy oral care habits at a young age so they will carry them into their teenage and adult years, and in this review from a family dentist, we discuss several ways that parents can help protect their children's oral health with healthy habits. We also discuss how a family dentist can help with oral hygiene development for children.
Specifically, parents can teach good oral hygiene habits to their children by helping their children brush their teeth and floss until they are able to do so on their own, ensuring that they use a fluoride toothpaste, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning visits every four to six months. Here is a more in-depth look at each of these tips from a family dentist.
There is no definitive age as to when a child is able to brush their own teeth. Instead, parents should keep track of their child’s progress and continue brushing for them (and with them) until they are ready to do it by themselves. Kids are usually able to start brushing their own teeth between the ages of five and six. Once they start doing so, watch them closely, and remind them to stay consistent with their oral care routine. These oral hygiene habits and routines are likely to carry into their teenage and adult years.
Consistency is essential when helping children develop good oral hygiene habits. Unfortunately, most children do not fully understand the importance of brushing, so it is important to remind them about the times that they should brush. It should ideally be once in the morning and once before bedtime. Parents will also need to help their child use a proper toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Children should understand the purpose of visiting the family dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Having your child visit the family dentist two to three times a year helps them get used to seeing a dentist, thus reducing the risk of dental anxiety or dental phobia. Perhaps more importantly, regular visits to the dentist are ideal for keeping the teeth clean, protecting the teeth from cavities, and promptly identifying and treating any oral health issues that do arise between visits.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Family Dentist in Troy, MI
Whether you need family dentistry services for yourself or your child, we encourage you to schedule a visit with our family dentistry practice today. We take great pride in helping our patients achieve optimal oral health and a healthy smile that they can maintain for decades. Contact us today by phone or message to schedule a visit. We would love to hear from you!
Request an appointment or call Dental First at 248-729-2506 for an appointment in our Troy office.
Oral health is integral to your overall health, and good dental hygiene is essential to maintain healthy teeth and gums. A family dentist not only helps to maintain healthy teeth and gums, but they also play an important role in preventing future dental problems. This blog will explore a family dentist's role in preventive dental…
Keeping your appointments with your family dentist can help keep your mouth healthy. This dental health professional knows how to relax and calm patients of every age. Knowing your dentist’s abilities can give you peace of mind that you are in good hands. Here are the details on how your family dentist can improve your…
Family dentists are uniquely qualified to offer various dental services to patients of all ages. Children, teens, and adults can visit the dentist for teeth cleanings, checkups, cavity fillings, and other restorative dental procedures. This article will examine the qualifications of family dentists to help you find the right one for your family’s oral health.Becoming…